Delcastle Technical High School is proud to celebrate three outstanding members of the Class of 2026 who have been named Delaware Secretary of Education Scholars: Saad Alzabidi, Jessica Sanchez Rodriguez, and Julissa Segura-Maldonado.
This prestigious recognition is one of the highest honors a student can earn in a Delaware public school. Secretary of Education Scholars are nominated by their principals based on academic achievement, leadership, and community service. This year, Delaware Secretary of Education Cindy Marten recognized 93 students statewide from the Class of 2026 during a special celebration in Dover.
“Excellence like we see here tonight doesn’t happen by accident. It is built day by day, decision by decision into something remarkable,” Marten told the students. “You likely have or will receive many honors and recognitions in your life. Just know that this is one of the highest honors a student can earn in a Delaware public school, and we are here to celebrate not just what you’ve accomplished but who you are becoming.”
At Delcastle, these three students exemplify that excellence through their commitment to academics, leadership, and service.
Saad Alzabidi – Information Tech Academy
Saad, son of Nadia Qasim and Muaadh Alzabidi, is an exceptional and ambitious student in Delcastle’s Information Tech Academy. Ranked first in his class with a 4.40 GPA, Saad has distinguished himself as both a scholar and leader. He serves as president of the Muslim Student Association and has been a four-year member of the soccer team. He also competes in Science Olympiad, Math League, Poetry Out Loud, and SkillsUSA. Saad hopes to major in computer science and attend the University of Delaware, where he plans to build technology that protects people, supports communities, and creates new opportunities for others.
Jessica Sanchez Rodriguez – Digital Media
Jessica, daughter of Irma Rodriguez Ayllon and Carmelo Sanchez of Newark, is an exceptional young woman known for her integrity, work ethic, and motivation. In addition to excelling in Delcastle’s Digital Media program, she serves as a SkillsUSA state officer, executive council member, and gold medal winner. She is also a member of the National Honor Society. Through her involvement in Latinos Unidos Club, Jessica proudly celebrates her Mexican heritage by participating in the Latino Heritage Showcase and other school and community events. After attending New York University’s summer program last year, she now plans to study finance at either NYU or the University of Delaware.
Julissa Segura-Maldonado – Chem Lab
Julissa Segura-Maldonado is a passionate and determined student in Delcastle’s Chem Lab program who sets ambitious goals and works every day to achieve them. With aspirations of becoming an engineer, Julissa has already established herself as a strong leader both academically and extracurriculary. She has demonstrated leadership in Science Olympiad, soccer, and volleyball, and she has also been nominated for the Governor’s School of Excellence. A member of the National Honor Society with an impressive 4.21 GPA, Julissa stands out for her drive, leadership, and commitment to personal growth.
These three seniors reflect the very best of Delcastle Technical High School. Their accomplishments, leadership, and character make Cougar Nation proud, and we are excited to see all they will accomplish in the future.
Congratulations again to Saad, Jessica, and Julissa on this well-deserved honor.