Llayna and Saniah Maul, identical twins, are graduating from Godby High School as valedictorian (top-ranked student) and salutatorian (second-highest-ranking student).
The two grew up doing various hobbies together and were equally dedicated to their education. According to the Tallahassee Democrat, the twins began high school online through the Florida Virtual School in 2020. They transferred to Godby High School in 2022 and began taking dual enrollment classes at Tallahassee Community College.
Llayna, the valedictorian, told WTXL, “It’s just been both of us trying really hard at school.”
Their appreciation for knowledge, she continued, has allowed them to achieve their goals and take advantage of the chances provided by their teachers. “It’s worthwhile to just focus and pay attention and really put forth that effort to make them proud,” she stated.
To enhance their college prospects, the 17-year-olds enrolled in TCC classes. “I don’t work for the A or the high GPA, I work just so I can be the best I can be,” said Saniah. She has received two Advanced Placement Scholar Awards and a Godby High Community Service Award.
They excel not only academically, but also in extracurricular activities. They were inducted into the National Honor Society and recently performed in “Shrek the Musical” with a theater company.
Saniah has been nominated in the arts area, and Llayna in the English language arts category, for Leon County’s Best and Brightest class in 2024. On May 15, the winners will be announced during a ceremony in the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall.
The Maul twins owe their success to their parents, James and Annie Leonard, who instilled in them a love of reading and music from an early age.
Their mother stated that her daughter’s performance had not surprised her. “This isn’t surprising, given how important family and education have always been in our household. I feel that a decent education begins at a young age.” Her husband also stated, “They enjoy being challenged, in a positive way, of course, and I enjoy that. They do not settle. They strive to learn as much as they can.
Saniah plans to attend Florida A&M University as a junior majoring in Animal Science Industry in the fall. In the future, she wants to be a science teacher and a wildlife veterinarian.
Llayna, on the other hand, is undecided of which university she wants to go but is certain she wants to study psychology.