Carrollton High School senior Thao Tran was selected by the Georgia Department of Education as a 2025 Exemplary English Learner. Pictured from left are CHS Principal Ian Lyle, CHS Assistant Principal Ashleigh Paulk, Exemplary ESOL Recipient Thao Tran, ESOL teacher Elaine Hobson and CHS Counselor Scott Hobson.
Thao Tran, a Carrollton High School graduating senior, has been awarded special recognition as a 2025 Exemplary English Learner by the Georgia Department of Education.
Thao is one of only 49 seniors recognized statewide for the honor. This year’s honorees represent 22 countries and 12 languages other than English. All have a GPA higher than 3.5, are on track to graduate this year, demonstrate exceptional work ethic and behavior, and have taken Advanced Placement and honors courses.
Thao, the daughter of Han Thi Ngoc Trinh and Tinh Phuoc Tran, is a student who consistently seeks opportunities to learn more and refine her skills. She will walk across the stage in May as an honor student, which is a testament to her commitment to academics.
“Thao has an outstanding work ethic and encourages other students to do their best,” said CHS Principal Ian Lyle. “This award honors the dedication she has shown to her studies. We are excited to be able to celebrate her and this incredible achievement.”
CHS ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages) teacher Elaine Hobson shared that Thao’s motivation and ability to persevere in any challenge are evident in her high-quality work and commitment to her future goals.
“Thao is an achiever who is confident, enthusiastic, and extremely mature for her age,” said Hobson. “She will continue to positively impact everyone around her and be successful in anything she chooses to pursue. I cannot wait to see all she will accomplish.”
Through Thao’s role as a tutor for other ESOL students, involvement in the National Honor Society, completion of a business pathway, and work outside of school shows determination to plan for her future.
By pursuing dual enrollment credit and Advanced Placement courses, she is already working toward her goal of working in the dental field.
Thao is continuing her education at West Georgia Technical College this fall, where she plans to complete the dental hygiene program.
When called to the front office to receive the award, Thao was surprised to be selected, despite her numerous qualifications. She says she simply tries to do her best and was honored to be nominated and selected from applicants across the state.
“I can’t believe I was picked!” Thao said in shock as she received her certificate. “It is an honor to have been chosen by the state as an Exemplary English Learner.”
