Signal Mountain Middle/High School Class of 2025
May 1, 2025 - From shy freshman to standout senior, Simon Lewis has made the most of his high school journey at Signal Mountain Middle High School. Whether it was in the classroom, on the cross-country team, or leading in student clubs, Simon has grown into a confident and inspiring student leader.
If he had to describe his high school story with a title, Simon says it would be something like The Little Engine That Could. “Coming in, I was very much more reserved and not as involved in my school community as I am now. But I stepped into my roles, found my interests, and my place,” he shared.
Simon calls himself “most likely to be a positive risk taker,” a title that may have been inspired by the IB ( International Baccalaureate) Learner Profile trait regularly highlighted at Signal Mountain through classes and school-wide encouragement. His willingness to step out of his comfort zone, try new things, and take on challenges has defined much of his high school experience. One of his favorite memories is winning the state championship in cross country during his sophomore year. “That was a really big deal for me. I had joined the team about a year and a half before and had come a long way. Being part of a group and achieving a goal was very gratifying.”
Outside of sports, Simon stayed active in Youth in Government and Mock Trial—two programs that made a big impact. “Signal offers so many opportunities outside of just classes,” he said. “Whether you're interested in law, science, theater, or band, there are clubs and organizations where you can take that interest further.”
Simon's achievements reached new heights this year when he was named a Morehead-Cain Scholar—one of the most prestigious merit scholarships in the country. “You get nominated by your school,” he explained. “It’s based on academics, athletics, scholarship, and character. You go through a long process that involves essays, interviews, and even a campus visit where they fly you out.”
The scholarship covers full tuition, room, board, and summer enrichment experiences. “This summer I’m going to Alaska for a month to backpack,” he said. Future summers will include study abroad, internships, and more, which will all be funded through the program.
Next year, Simon will head to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he plans to major in political science and public policy. “I hope to eventually go to law school and go into a career in law or public service,” he said.
Simon’s dream job? “Something that involves travel and career-wise, working in federal or state law and being an advocate.” He also hopes to live in Washington, D.C. one day or even spend time in Costa Rica, where his mom once lived.
Even as he looks ahead, Simon reflects on what high school has meant. “I’ll miss the camaraderie of those around you in school and in sports,” he said. “But I’m excited to leave behind all the IB classes. It’s been great, but a lot of work.”
His advice to younger students? “Take big risks,” he says. And to his freshman self, he would say: “Don’t be afraid to break out of your shell. Take initiative. Explore your interests. Don’t be afraid to get involved.”
Simon Lewis’ time at Signal Mountain has been nothing short of remarkable. From quiet beginnings to becoming a campus leader, he’s shown what it means to grow into your strengths and make a difference. As he heads to UNC-Chapel Hill, we’re confident that the best is yet to come.