@stound don't know what your real age is but depending on when you grew up this was a common thing. Fathers not finishing highschool and still working full time to support their families. This is definitely a possibility. I believe this to be the truth.
Graduating highschool valedictorian is quite the honor. Not everyone is capable of achieving this feat. Not doubting your skills as I do not know you but I'm going to say this is the lie.