Byram Hills

This month’s highlights showcase the many ways Byram Hills students continue to grow and thrive. From national scholarship recognitions and international competitions to student-led service initiatives and performances in the arts, these experiences reflect the dedication of our students, staff and families and the strong sense of community that makes Byram Hills so special.

Please take a few moments to watch the video presentation of the proposed 2026-2027 School Budget. The community will have the opportunity to vote on the budget and the election of two Board of Education Trustees on Tuesday, May 19th, at H. C. Crittenden Middle School from 6:30 am to 9:00 pm.

Thank you for taking the time to become an informed voter.

Districtwide

Byram Hills Named a Best Community for Music Education
For the second year in a row, Byram Hills has been named a Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation. In its 27th year, the organization recognizes school districts across the country for their outstanding commitment to music education and efforts to ensure equitable access to music learning opportunities as part of a well-rounded education.

Recipients of the 2026 award were selected through a comprehensive application and review process evaluating funding, participation, instructional time, facilities and community support. This recognition reflects the continued dedication of our students, teachers, families, support staff, administrators, Board of Education and community members who help foster a thriving arts program throughout the District.

Wampus Elementary School

Wampus Art Show Celebrates Student Creativity
Wampus Elementary School recently hosted its annual Art Show, welcoming families and community members into the cafeteria to celebrate the creativity and artistic accomplishments of our student artists. The showcase featured a wide variety of artwork created throughout the 2025-2026 school year and transformed the space into a colorful gallery highlighting the imagination of our Wampus students.

Wampus Students Shine During Spring Concert Season
Wampus recently kicked off its Spring Concert season with Grade 4 General Music Concerts featuring wonderful renditions of songs inspired by favorite films and musical moments.

Enjoy a performance below and be sure to subscribe to the District YouTube Channel and visit BobcatTV.org to watch more performances and programming from across our schools!

 

H.C. Crittenden Middle School

Art for HCC Club Beautifies the School Community

This year, students and faculty members at H.C. Crittenden Middle School came together through the new Art for HCC club to help beautify the school through a collaborative art installation project. Throughout the year, students and staff painted rocks, each adding a unique and personal touch to the project. On May 11, the installation was officially completed, serving as a colorful and lasting symbol of creativity, collaboration and school pride.


Byram Hills High School

Claire Mauney and Angelina Nie Earn National Merit Scholarships

Congratulations to Byram Hills High School seniors Claire Mauney and Angelina Nie, who each earned a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship. They are among approximately 7,000 students nationwide selected from a pool of 15,000 National Merit finalists recognized for their academic achievements, leadership and potential for success in rigorous college studies. Angelina plans to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Honors Carolina program to study biology, while Claire will attend Duke University and pursue a double major in economics and statistical science.


Gavin Bunting Wins Gold at State Invention Convention

Congratulations to Byram Hills High School senior Gavin Bunting, who won a gold medal at the New York Invention Convention in Albany for his science research project. Gavin developed a computer program designed to streamline endoscopic surgery videos, creating an efficient visual training tool for surgeons using the da Vinci robotic surgery system. His first-place finish advances him to the National Invention Convention in Dearborn, Michigan, where he will compete against students from across the country.


National Art Honor Society Welcomes New Members

Congratulations to the 14 newest inductees into the National Art Honor Society and the newly appointed student leaders of the organization. The National Art Honor Society recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in the visual arts while also exemplifying scholarship, leadership, character and service. These talented students continue to contribute to the vibrant arts community at Byram Hills through their creativity, dedication and passion for artistic expression.

Mu Alpha Theta Honors 59 Students

Congratulations to the 59 Byram Hills High School students inducted into the Mu Alpha Theta Honor Society. The organization promotes scholarship in mathematics while encouraging students to pursue leadership and service through the subject. During the induction ceremony, students shared presentations highlighting their passion for mathematics and the important role it plays in problem-solving, innovation and everyday life.


Adley Aronsky Named Junk Kouture NYC Finalist

Congratulations to junior Adley Aronsky for being named a New York City Finalist in Junk Kouture 2026. Adley’s work will now be featured in the global Junk Kouture Festival of Finals, showcasing student designers from cities around the world including New York, Paris, Dubai, Milan and London. The event celebrates young designers who are pushing creative boundaries through sustainability, innovation and fashion design.


A Look Inside the VEX Robotics World Championships
Earlier this spring, Byram Hills High School seniors Stepan Sarkisov and Sutton Schames represented Byram Hills at the VEX Robotics World Championships in St. Louis, competing against top robotics teams from around the world. A recently released video, filmed and edited by robotics teacher Peter Lichten, offers a behind-the-scenes look at the intensity, innovation and teamwork that define the world championship experience.

Science Research Students Recognized at Tri-County Fair
Congratulations to the Byram Hills High School students in the Authentic Science Research Program for a strong showing at the Tri-County Science & Technology Fair! Junior Chloe Ferreira Szilagyi placed first in the environment category and qualified to compete at the New York State Science Congress competition in June. Her research focused on algae in the Kensico Reservoir, one of the most vital water supplies in New York, and paves the way for more accurate forecasting of future harmful algae blooms in the reservoir. Senior Gavin Bunting placed second in math/computers. The third-place winners were senior Angelina Nie in biology, senior Claire Mauney in clinical/social psychology, senior Jeremy Loots in earth/space, senior Max Charney in math/computers and junior Ying Yin Chen in physics. Students from Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam counties competed in 11 categories in the online competition, which was organized by the nonprofit Putnam Children's Discovery Center.


Global Scholars Students Lead Lessons on Kindness and Community

More than 90 students from the BHHS Global Scholars program recently visited Coman Hill Elementary School to lead schoolwide lessons focused on food insecurity, kindness and community action. Working with students in grades K-2, the high school students read Maddi’s Fridge and guided thoughtful conversations encouraging younger students to consider how small acts of kindness can make a meaningful impact within their community.


Eleven Student Athletes Commit to Collegiate Athletics

Byram Hills High School recently celebrated 11 student athletes who will continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level next year during a ceremonial signing day hosted by the Athletics Department. The event recognized the hard work, dedication and commitment these students have demonstrated throughout their athletic and academic journeys at Byram Hills.


Varley Players Present A Night of One-Act Plays
The Varley Players will present Buy One-Act, Get One-Act: A Night of One-Act Plays, featuring six student-directed and student-designed productions showcasing the talent and creativity of Byram Hills theater students.

We look forward to closing out the school year by celebrating the many accomplishments, milestones and memories that have made this such a wonderful year across the District. Thank you for your continued support, partnership and commitment to the Byram Hills community.
 

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Across the Byram Hills school community, students are showcasing their creativity, curiosity, and leadership. This spring has seen their efforts shine in classrooms, competitions, and various community initiatives. In recent weeks, middle school students earned recognition in regional science competitions while high school researchers and artists received regional and national honors, highlighting the many ways Byram Hills students explore, discover and grow.

Students are also making an impact beyond the classroom through service, collaboration and mentorship. From advancing to international competitions to guiding younger students in conversations about sportsmanship and responsibility, these experiences reflect the dedication, character and spirit that define the Byram Hills community.

Public Budget Information Committee Meetings
That same spirit of connection extends beyond the classroom to how we engage our community in the District’s work. Community members are invited to attend upcoming Public Budget Information Committee meetings, where residents can learn more about the development of the 2026-2027 school budget and take part in the conversation.

Meetings will take place at the District Office, 10 Tripp Lane, Armonk, NY 10504.

Public Budget Information Committee Meeting 2
Thursday, April 23
10:00 - 11:00 am

Public Budget Information Committee Meeting 3
Thursday, May 7
10:00 - 11:00 am

For questions about the Committee, please contact Colin O’Connor.
 

H.C. Crittenden Middle School

HCC Science Olympiad Teams Bring Home Regional Trophy

Congratulations to the H.C. Crittenden Middle School Science Olympiad Club for finishing 10th at the Lower Hudson Regional Tournament earlier this month and bringing home a trophy. HCC brought 43 sixth, seventh and eighth grade students who competed on three teams, with 12 students earning a total of 15 medals for placing in the top 10 of their events.

The tournament, held at Scarsdale Middle School, featured teams from 20 schools competing in a wide range of scientific categories.

“We’re so proud of our Science Olympiad teams for their incredible dedication, teamwork and passion for discovery,” said HCC Library Media Specialist Barbara Barthelmes, who coaches the students alongside science teachers Michelle Smith and Roselle Yang.

Medal Winners

HCC A Team
Ava, Aerin and Emma
Codebusters, third place

Emma and Nicolas
Circuit Lab, fifth place

Ava and Kyra
Water Quality, ninth place

HCC B Team
Abigail and Advait
Anatomy and Physiology, fourth place

Kirin and Krenar
Dynamic Planet, seventh place

Abigail and Mariella
Water Quality, eighth place

HCC C Team
Archit and Carter
Entomology, tenth place

Harrison Edwards Earns State Recognition in Peace Poster Contest

Congratulations to HCC eighth grader Harrison Edwards, who was named a finalist in the International Lions Club Peace Poster Contest. Harrison’s poster, created for the 2025 to 2026 theme “Together as One,” previously won first place at the regional level of the competition and went on to earn third place at the New York State level. The Lions International Peace Poster Contest invites students ages 11 to 13 to express their vision of peace through art and is evaluated on originality, artistic merit and expression of the theme.

Byram Hills High School

Byram Hills Science Research Students Earn Top Honors at WESEF

Congratulations to Byram Hills High School Science Research students for their outstanding showing at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair. WESEF celebrates student-driven research and innovation from high school students across Westchester and Putnam counties.

Awards
First Place
Max Charney, Behavioral and Social Science
Sophie Cai, Chemistry

Second Place
Chloe Ferreira Szilagyi, Environmental Sciences
Rohan Sundaram, Medicine and Health

Third Place
Ying Yin Chen, Physics

Fourth Place
Lindsay Coady, Medicine and Health
Beatrice Bachmann, Behavioral and Social Science

Special Awards
Excellence in Behavioral Science Award
Claire Mauney

Innovations in Biological Sciences Research Award
Angelina Nie

Ingenuity in Research Award
Abigail Shrayer

Science Research Academy Award for Excellence in Remote Research
Selina Li

New York Invents Award
Gavin Bunting

International GENIUS Olympiad Qualifier
Chloe Ferreira Szilagyi

Robotics Team Advances to VEX World Competition

Congratulations to Sutton Schames and Stepan Sarkisov, who won the Innovate Award at the Southern New York State VEX Robotics Championship at Kennedy Catholic School in Somers. With the award, the team has qualified to compete in the VEX Robotics World Competition in St. Louis at the end of April.


Angjelina Vataj Earns Human Rights Leadership Award

Congratulations to Byram Hills High School senior Angjelina Vataj for receiving the Richard A. Berman Leadership Award for Human Rights from the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center. Angjelina’s most significant human rights contribution is the founding of Ugandan Health Heroes, a multiyear initiative she launched with classmate Della Gonzalez after learning about a young girl and her unborn child who died from malaria and limited access to health care. Through the project, she helped a clinic obtain government registration, led a fundraising effort that raised more than $3,000, organized a drive that collected more than 70 pounds of medical and bedding supplies and coordinated logistics to deliver the materials to clinics serving eight villages.

SALT Members Lead Sportsmanship Lessons at HCC

Members of the Byram Hills High School Student Athletic Leadership Team recently visited sixth-grade health classes at H.C. Crittenden Middle School to lead discussions about sportsmanship and decision-making.

Through real-world scenarios, the high school seniors guided conversations about situations such as supporting teammates, handling peer pressure and making responsible choices. The students will return for a second session focused on navigating social media.


Nate Zipper Named National Scholastic Art Award Winner

Congratulations to Byram Hills High School sophomore Nate Zipper, who has been named a 2026 Scholastic Art and Writing Awards National Winner. Nate received a Gold Medal for his photograph titled “Canvas of Pain.” Nate is the first Byram Hills student to earn a National Scholastic Art Award. Earlier in the regional competition, he earned six Gold Keys, four Silver Keys and two Honorable Mentions. This year’s competition included more than 335,000 original works submitted by more than 110,000 students nationwide.

Additionally, Byram Hills High School art teacher Jayne Karlin received a 2026 Educator Award recognizing her dedication and mentorship reflected in her students’ work.


Caspar Hamilton Honored with St. Vincent’s Youth Award

Junior Caspar Hamilton was recently honored with a St. Vincent’s Hospital / Saint Joseph’s Medical Center Youth Award, recognizing his commitment to volunteer service and helping others in the community. The St. Vincent’s Youth Awards celebrate high school students from across the region whose volunteer efforts reflect the organization’s core values of respect, integrity, compassion and excellence. Each year, the Auxiliary Board of St. Vincent’s Hospital Westchester selects students who have demonstrated outstanding service and dedication to their communities. Through both his volunteer work and the reflections shared in his award essay, Caspar exemplified the spirit of service recognized by the program. His recognition highlights not only his personal commitment to helping others, but also the broader culture of community engagement embraced by Byram Hills students.


Byram Hills Welcomes Nine New Members to Tri-M Music Honor Society

The Byram Hills High School Music Department recently welcomed nine students into its chapter of the Tri-M Music Honor Society during an induction ceremony held on April 13. The newly inducted members are Maeve Bunting, Isabel Cooper, Madelyn Gish, Paloma Hussain, Samuel Majidi, Ojaswi Sahu, Darby Schlosser, Zoe Schneidman and Peter Weil. Tri-M Music Honor Society recognizes students who demonstrate excellence in music, strong academic achievement and a commitment to service through their involvement in school ensembles and community activities. Inductees have shown dedication to their musical growth while contributing to the vibrant arts community at Byram Hills.


AP Art Show Celebrates Student Creativity
The Byram Hills High School AP Art Show will be on display next week, showcasing the incredible work of our talented student artists. The show will be open Tuesday, April 14, and Wednesday, April 15, from 8 am to 2:30 pm in Room 100A in the Learning Commons.

Stop by and come support the fabulous work of our AP Art students.

Multicultural Moment

The Byram Hills PTSA recently hosted its annual Multicultural Night, bringing the community together to celebrate the many cultures represented across Byram Hills. Families shared food, music, dance and traditions from around the world, creating an evening filled with learning, connection and celebration.

Students and families had the opportunity to experience cultural displays and performances that highlighted the diversity of the Byram Hills community. Events like Multicultural Night help strengthen understanding, appreciation and connection among the many cultures that make up our school community.
 

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As we continue through the early months of 2026, Byram Hills students continue to shine through their creativity, leadership and commitment to learning. From middle school students spreading kindness throughout the community to high school seniors earning national academic recognition, robotics teams advancing in competition and student designers representing Byram Hills on the international stage, the past several weeks have highlighted the many ways our students learn, create and lead.

The arts and athletics have also brought the community together, with the Varley Players presenting four performances of Cinderella and the Boys Varsity Ice Hockey team advancing to the State Final Four.

These moments reflect the energy, collaboration and pride that define the Byram Hills school community.

Public Budget Information Committee Meetings
That same spirit of connection extends beyond the classroom to how we engage our community in the District’s work. Community members are invited to attend upcoming Public Budget Information Committee meetings, where residents can learn more about the development of the 2026-2027 school budget and take part in the conversation.

Meetings will take place at the District Office, 10 Tripp Lane, Armonk, NY 10504.

Public Budget Information Committee Meeting 2
Thursday, April 23
10:00 - 11:00 am

Public Budget Information Committee Meeting 3
Thursday, May 7
10:00 - 11:00 am

If you have questions about the Committee, please contact Colin O’Connor.



H.C. Crittenden Middle School

HCC Students Capture Kindness Across the Community

H.C. Crittenden Middle School students captured kindness and shared it throughout their school and community during the annual Kindness Week celebration, a week filled with fun and impactful activities! Last month, students made heart-shaped “kindness receipts” for customers at DeCicco & Sons in Armonk, featuring uplifting messages like “It doesn’t cost anything to be kind” and “You can always give something, even if it’s only kindness.” They were such a hit that several community members called HCC to say that the gesture made their day. “It was rewarding to see the positive difference our middle schoolers made in our community,” Principal Kim Lapple said. The week also featured “kindness coupons” given to students by teachers who observed kind acts, and students loved posing for photos in front of a kindness backdrop. Middle schoolers and staff also took turns being the “I” in the word “kind” for a fun video that played throughout the school to spread the message of kindness.




Byram Hills High School

Three Seniors Named National Merit Finalists

Three Byram Hills High School seniors have advanced to Finalist standing in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program. The students are Claire Mauney, Angelina Nie and Amanda Olego. More than 1.3 million students entered the competition by taking the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. About 16,000 students nationwide were named semifinalists, representing less than one percent of high school seniors. More than 15,000 students advanced to finalist standing, and approximately half will earn National Merit Scholarships. Winners will be announced between April and July.


Robotics Team Earns Innovate Award

Congratulations to Sutton Schames, Stepan Sarkisov, Annie Calvi and Taisiya Safonova for earning the Innovate Award at the Harvey School VEX Robotics Competition NYS Qualifier. The award recognizes teams that demonstrate a creative and well-documented engineering design process centered on a novel robot feature or strategy. With this recognition, the team qualified for the Southern New York State VEX Robotics Competition at Kennedy Catholic School on March 14.


Students Compete in Junk Kouture World Final

Byram Hills High School seniors Sophie and Riley traveled to Dublin in February to compete in the Junk Kouture World Final, an international sustainable fashion competition. Their design, Fausse Fleur, featured a white dress with cascading pink flowers created from clear plastic garbage bags, faux flowers and a bedsheet.Riley modeled the design on stage as the students competed against teams from Dubai, Dublin, London, Milan, New York and Paris.The Byram Hills team was one of 10 teams from the United States selected for the world final.
 

Varley Players Bring Cinderella to the Stage

Congratulations to the cast, crew, pit band and production team of Cinderella. The Varley Players presented four performances that filled the auditorium and brought the classic fairy tale to life through music, choreography, costumes and stage design.


Boys Varsity Ice Hockey Advances to State Final Four
Congratulations to the Boys Varsity Ice Hockey team on becoming Regional Champions. With the victory, the Bobcats advance to the New York State Final Four in Buffalo.

Go Bobcats!
 

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February continued the strong momentum across Byram Hills as students shared their creativity, leadership, and learning with the community. From hands-on design challenges and theatrical performances to scientific exploration, civic engagement, athletics, and the arts, our schools were filled with meaningful opportunities that brought students together and showcased the depth of talent across the District.

That same spirit of connection extends beyond the classroom to how we engage our community in the District’s work. We are pleased to share details about our upcoming Public Budget Information Committee meetings, where community members are invited to learn more about the 2026 to 2027 budget process and take part in the conversation.

If you are interested in participating, please join us at the District Office, 10 Tripp Lane.

Public Budget Information Committee Meeting 1
Thursday, February 26
10:00 to 11:00 am

Public Budget Information Committee Meeting 2
Thursday, April 23
10:00 to 11:00 am

Public Budget Information Committee Meeting 3
Thursday, May 7
10:00 to 11:00 am

If you have questions about the Committee, please contact Colin O’Connor.


H.C. Crittenden Middle School

Winter Festival Showcases Student Innovation

Congratulations to the eighth graders at H.C. Crittenden Middle School for another successful Winter Festival! Held after school on January 23, the event was filled with fun and games for the Byram Hills community. In technology class, students spent weeks designing and building original arcade games, each combining elements of carnival games, sports, and board games. They ran their creations at the festival, which helps support the annual eighth-grade trip to Washington, D.C.


Beauty and the Beast Jr. Lights Up the Stage

Congratulations to the cast, crew, and production team of H.C. Crittenden’s Beauty and the Beast Jr. on three outstanding performances on February 6 and 7 that packed the house and brought this beloved story to life with beautiful costumes, singing, and a memorable touch of magic on stage.

 

HCC’s Harold’s Pen Earns Superior Recognition in 2025 REALM Contest
H.C. Crittenden Middle School’s student literary magazine, Harold’s Pen, has been recognized as “Superior” in the 2025 REALM Contest, Recognizing Excellence in Art and Literature Magazines. Schools were permitted to submit only one publication from the 2024 to 2025 school year, and HCC selected its Winter 2025 issue to represent the creativity and talent of its student writers and artists. The REALM rankings include First Class, Superior, Excellent, Distinguished, and Honorable Mention, and HCC earned the Superior designation, making it the only New York middle school not attached to a high school program to receive this level of recognition. This distinction highlights the dedication of our students and the commitment of the faculty advisors who guide and support them.

To read the award-winning Harold’s Pen, click here: https://sites.google.com/byramhills.net/haroldspen2024-winter

Constitution Collaboration Across Grade Levels

High school seniors in AP U.S. Government and Politics partnered with seventh graders to bring the Constitution to life through hands-on learning. Together, students drafted and revised original bills as part of the seventh-grade Constitution unit. Students then voted on their favorite proposal and wrote letters to their congressional representatives to advocate for the bill they believed in.

Secondary Art Show Highlights Student Creativity

Congratulations to the H.C. Crittenden Middle School and Byram Hills High School students whose artwork was featured in the Winter Art Show at Byram Hills High School in January. Families and community members gathered for a welcoming reception and enjoyed the opportunity to explore an impressive collection of pieces representing the full range of secondary art programs. From fashion designs and vibrant paintings to ceramics, mixed media, and photography, the exhibit highlighted the creativity, skill, and unique perspectives of our student artists while celebrating the depth of talent across our schools.

Byram Hills High School

Robotics Team Recognized for Sportsmanship

Congratulations to Annie Calvi, Stepan Sarkisov, and Sutton Schames for earning the VEX Robotics Sportsmanship Award at the Fallsburg competition. This honor is presented to teams that consistently demonstrate exceptional courtesy, cooperation, honesty, and positive conduct throughout the event. Their respect for fellow competitors, willingness to help others, and friendly, approachable nature reflected the very best of Byram Hills both on and off the competition floor.


Science Olympiad Brings Teams Together

On February 7, Byram Hills High School proudly hosted our annual Science Olympiad event, welcoming 31 teams from across the region for a full day of collaboration, problem-solving, and scientific exploration! Our team had an impressive showing, earning medals in seven events and finishing 12th overall. Congratulations to our team for their teamwork, success, and passion for science!


National Ceramic Exhibition Honors Student Artists
 
Seniors Sarah Bogart and Lucia Naranjo had ceramic works selected for the 29th Annual National K-12 Ceramic Exhibition in Detroit this March. Sarah’s Coral Reef Teapot and Lucia’s Self Portrait Mug were chosen as two of just 150 pieces from 1,051 submissions nationwide. The exhibit runs from March 25-27.


Scholastic Art and Writing Awards
Seven Byram Hills student artists earned a combined 19 regional Scholastic Art and Writing Awards in the Region At Large East for originality, skill, and personal voice. Gold Key works will advance to national judging in New York City.

Region-at-Large East Art Winners
Junior Reece Geller earned a Silver Key in photography for Silent Rivers.

Sophomore Kaleigh Hermanto received an Honorable Mention in mixed media for Charred Dreams.

Junior Gianna Marrone earned a Gold Key in photography for When Day Meets Dusk.

Senior Angelina Nie earned a Gold Key in painting for Rain Before the Rainbow and in the portfolio category for Emotions.

Senior Addison Petre received an Honorable Mention in ceramics and glass for Alabaster.

Junior Joey Schachter earned a Gold Key in photography for Bridging Time.

Sophomore Nate Zipper earned six Gold Keys in photography for Waterjoy, Canvas of Pain, Phantom Drive, Midnight Refuge, Rest Stop, and Ghosts of the Fairground; four Silver Keys for Whispers in the Mist, Signal Lost, Solitude, and Eyes Wide Shut; and two Honorable Mentions for Boyhood and Adorned Rebellion.



Pink the Rink Surpasses 100,000 Dollars Raised

Byram Hills Boys Varsity Ice Hockey raised over $13,500 for the American Cancer Society at its 14th annual Pink the Rink game on January 24, bringing the program’s total fundraising for breast cancer research and support to over $100,000! Through the game, bake sales, merchandise, online donations, and a chuck-a-puck contest, students, families, alumni, and community members packed Brewster Ice Arena to support the cause as the Bobcats skated to a 2 to 0 win over Fox Lane in pink jerseys.
 

Wrestling Championship Milestone

Congratulations to Nick Fortugno on winning the 126-pound Section One Championship at the Westchester County Center. With this victory, Nick became a four-time Section One Champion and will continue his season at the New York State Championships in Albany.


Districtwide Music Festivals Continue to Inspire
In January, students from Wampus Elementary School, H.C. Crittenden Middle School, and Byram Hills High School participated in a series of District Music Festivals. Fifth graders, eighth graders, and high school musicians from band, orchestra, and chorus participated in team-building activities, small group sectionals, full rehearsals, combined performances, and group lunches at each festival.

February reflected the energy, creativity, and connection that define Byram Hills. We look forward to the many accomplishments still to come this spring! Go Bobcats.

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We have had a wonderful start to 2026 at Byram Hills. Across our schools, students have been hard at work exploring new ideas, showcasing their talents, and building connections through academics, the arts, and community. We are proud to share just a few of the many highlights from this exciting start to the year.

Byram Hills High School

BHHS Seniors Earn National Recognition in Prestigious Science Competition
Byram Hills High School seniors Max Charney and Lindsay Coady were selected as Top 300 Scholars in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search, the nation’s oldest and most respected science and math competition for high school seniors. This honor recognizes their original research completed through Byram Hills’ three-year Authentic Science Research Program. Each student earned a $2,000 scholarship, and the District received $4,000 in recognition of their achievement.

Max Charney analyzed millions of Amazon consumer reviews to explore large-scale social behavior. His research found strong evidence that people tend to stick to New Year’s fitness resolutions, and he also discovered that taste complaints in food reviews align with COVID-19 prevalence, suggesting a potential new way to help predict future disease trends.

Lindsay Coady studied schizophrenia, a severe psychiatric disorder with symptoms such as hallucinations and delusions. Her research focused on identifying immune system proteins associated with schizophrenia compared to other mental health conditions. Her findings provide new evidence that immune dysfunction plays a role in the disorder and may help guide future treatments.

 

Young Authors Master Class Highlights Student Writing
In December, BHHS seniors Alexis Siegel and Lilly Alonzo, members of the Perspectives in Literature class, attended the Young Authors Master Class sponsored by Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES. The program gave students the opportunity to work directly with professional editors to refine a piece of their writing. Their work will be published and shared with students who attend the Young Authors Conference this spring.



 

 

Robotics Team Recognized for Sportsmanship
Congratulations to Sutton Schames, Stepan Sarkisov, and Annie Calvi for earning the VEX Robotics Sportsmanship Award at the Fallsburg VEX Robotics Competition. The award honors teams that demonstrate exceptional courtesy, cooperation, honesty, and positive conduct. Recipients show respect for all participants, support their peers, and contribute to a positive and collaborative competition environment.

Nick Fortugno Sets School Wrestling Record
Congratulations to Nick Fortugno, who became Byram Hills High School’s all-time wrestling wins leader with 140 victories. Nick sealed the record-breaking achievement with a first-period pin against Rye, marking a major milestone in an outstanding Bobcat wrestling career.

Pink the Rink Unites the Community for a Great Cause
Community members are invited to lace up their pink and pack the stands for the 14th Annual Pink the Rink hockey game as Byram Hills takes on Fox Lane on Saturday, January 24, at 7:15 p.m. at Brewster Ice Arena. Admission is $5, with all proceeds benefiting the American Cancer Society.





H.C. Crittenden Middle School

History Comes to Life Through History in Bricks
Seventh graders at H.C. Crittenden Middle School brought history to life through History in Bricks, an engaging social studies project focused on the American Revolution and its impact on Westchester County and the North Castle community.

Students studied one of six local historic sites, including Leonard Park, Merritt Hill, Smith’s Tavern, Elijah Miller’s House, Miller Hill, and the Major John André Monument. They transformed their research into virtual Lego sets that visually represented each site. Students also wrote letters to Lego explaining the historical importance of their location and used generative artificial intelligence to create realistic images of their mock designs.

The project, created by the seventh-grade social studies teachers, connects local history to creativity and innovation as the nation prepares for the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution this July.

Wampus Elementary School

Third Graders Explore the World Through Digital News
At the Wampus Elementary School library, third graders were introduced to News O Matic, a digital news platform designed for young readers. Students explored a wide range of current events and high-interest topics, selecting stories that piqued their curiosity.

Through guided exploration and independent reading, students practiced navigating online articles, building comprehension skills, and discussing what they learned with classmates. The experience supported both literacy and digital citizenship, helping students better understand the world around them.

 

 

 

Districtwide Music Festivals Bring Students Together
On January 15 and 16, Byram Hills High School hosted the annual Districtwide Music Festivals, bringing together hundreds of student musicians from across the District for three days of collaboration, creativity, and inspiration. Fifth graders from Wampus Elementary School and eighth graders from H.C. Crittenden Middle School traveled to the high school to work alongside BHHS students and faculty in band, orchestra, and chorus. During three half-day sessions, students took part in icebreakers, rehearsed together, and built strong ensemble connections, and each group performed polished final pieces that highlighted the strength of our music program.

We look forward to all the amazing things our students will continue to achieve in the months ahead. Go Bobcats!

 

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As we approach the end of the calendar year, our schools are filled with learning, creativity, celebration, and community spirit. We are proud to share just a few of the many events and accomplishments across our District. 

Coman Hill Elementary School

Chess Team Brings Home First Place at the Rye Scholastic Chess Classic
On November 23, the Coman Hill Chess Team proudly represented our school at the Rye Scholastic Chess Classic, one of Westchester’s most well-known youth tournaments. The event attracts competitive young chess players from across the region and emphasizes strategy, focus, and good sportsmanship.

Team captain Emilia, along with teammates Jace, Oliver, and Charlie, competed with impressive determination through every round. Their teamwork and strong play earned them a 1st place team trophy, marking a remarkable achievement for our young Bobcats.

Congratulations to our chess team, we are so proud of your commitment and success!

 

Wampus Elementary School

PTSA Gift of Giving Event Inspires a Season of Generosity
The Byram Hills PTSA once again hosted its annual Gift of Giving event at Wampus Elementary School, and the response was extraordinary. Our community came together with kindness and compassion, filling sixteen large bags with carefully wrapped presents created by students. Families also contributed new clothing, books, backpacks, makeup, and other essential items through the Sharing Shelf website, supporting children and families across Westchester.

This tradition continues to highlight the power of giving and the impact of our District’s generous spirit. What an inspiring way to begin December!

    


H.C. Crittenden Middle School

Seventh Graders Connect Literature to Life on Broadway
H.C.C. seventh graders traveled to New York City to see the Broadway musical The Outsiders, bringing their classroom study of S.E. Hinton’s classic novel to life. Earlier this fall, students read the book and watched the film adaptation. Thanks to a Byram Hills PTSA Cultural Enrichment sponsorship, they were able to extend their learning by experiencing the story on stage on November 12.

         

Winter Concerts Showcase Musical Talent
H.C.C. also held its Grade 6, 7, and 8 Winter Concerts, where orchestras, choruses, and bands performed for families and friends. Each ensemble delivered polished, joyful performances that reflected months of practice and highlighted the strength of our music program. The concerts were a wonderful way to celebrate the season and the dedication of our student musicians.  You can see all of the concerts on our District YouTube Channel.

    


Byram Hills High School

Varley Players Deliver Three Outstanding Performances
On November 21 and 22, the Varley Players took the stage for their fall production of The Servant of Two Masters, Carlo Goldoni’s classic Italian comedy. Filled with physical humor, sharp wit, and spirited characters, the production showcased the creativity and talent of our student cast and crew. Audiences were treated to three energetic and memorable performances, each reflecting the tremendous effort of the entire production team.

  


 

Winter Music Season Brings the Community Together
On December 11, Byram Hills Year 3 Global Scholars visited the Mount Kisco Child Care Center for a special holiday breakfast with the children and families they have been supporting this season. Through their fundraising efforts, students raised nearly $7,000 to provide holiday gift cards, helping families purchase meaningful gifts and meals of their choosing. Their work reflects the empathy, leadership, and spirit of giving that define the Byram Hills community. During the visit, the students also met State Senator Pete Harckham, who congratulated them on their commitment to community action and compassionate leadership.

Our winter music performances filled December with incredible student artistry across the District. On December 11, BHHS hosted its Winter Concert featuring our Band, Chorus, and Orchestra. Students delivered moving performances that showcased their dedication, collaboration, and musical growth.

This was followed by Music in Armonk Square, where HCC and BHHS musicians performed on December 12. Students filled downtown Armonk with festive music while families and community members gathered to enjoy this cherished seasonal tradition.


      
 

The season concludes with our final concert on Monday, December 15, at 7 p.m. at Byram Hills High School. This Jazz Concert will feature the HCC and BHHS Jazz Ensembles, the BHHS Jazz Choir, and Byram Beat. Doors open at 6:45 p.m., and the evening promises great artistry and toe-tapping fun. You can see all of the concerts on our District YouTube Channel.


Alumni Panel Supports Students Preparing for Life After High School
Byram Hills High School will close out the year with a meaningful tradition. On Thursday, December 18, the Challenge Success Steering Committee will host its annual Alumni Panel at 10:30 a.m. for current juniors and seniors. Students were asked to submit questions they are most eager to ask alumni, from navigating college to entering the workforce to maintaining balance and well-being.

The goal of the panel is to help reduce anxieties about the future by providing students with real, reassuring insight from graduates who were once in their position.

The event begins with the Alumni Breakfast at 10 a.m., open to all alumni returning home for the holidays. We are deeply grateful to our graduates who continue to give back to the Byram Hills community.

A Wonderful December in Byram Hills
From academic enrichment to artistic excellence, from acts of generosity to community traditions, December has been a joyful and inspiring month across our schools. Thank you to our students, families, faculty, and staff for contributing to a strong and connected school community.
 

We look forward to a bright and exciting New Year ahead. Go Bobcats!
 

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Fall 2025 has been an exciting and inspiring season across the Byram Hills School District. From the moment students returned in September, their hard work, leadership, and school pride have been on full display across every building.


Arts and Performances Shine Across the District
At Byram Hills High School, the Choir hosted its annual Choir Cabaret on October 24, A Musical Journey: The Places in Our Hearts. The performance featured the full Concert Choir along with standout soloists, duos, and small ensembles. Each piece reflected a meaningful place that shaped the performers’ lives, resulting in an evening filled with heartfelt storytelling and musicality.

In the visual arts, senior Angelina Nie earned the prestigious honor of participating in the Armonk Outdoor Art Show Public Art Installation, contributing a large fiberglass heart sculpture displayed at the North Castle Public Library through September 28.
She was joined at the show by 33 student artists, making Byram Hills one of the strongest youth presences at this celebrated regional event. Professional judges awarded top honors to:

First Place: Angelina Nie
Second Place: Julia Miller
Third Place: Sara Bogart

  

The music program continued its strong season as ten Byram Hills High School musicians were selected to perform in the highly competitive Area All-State Ensembles. Selection was based on exceptional NYSSMA scores earned last spring. They performed at Purchase College's Performing Arts Center on October 30, 2025.

Liana Brown, Soprano, Mixed Choir
Paloma Hussain, Cello, String Orchestra
Maximilian Leopold, Tenor II, Mixed Choir
Emi Nagura, Alto I, Treble Choir
Evan Reiss, Cello, Symphony Orchestra
Darby Schlosser, Soprano I, Mixed Choir
Kendall Sorenson, Soprano I, Mixed Choir
Avni Sundaram, Violin, Symphony Orchestra
Elena Yu, Violin, Symphony Orchestra
Alexandra Zodda, Double Bass, Symphony Orchestra

Director of Fine Arts Marc Beja congratulated the students and acknowledged the dedication of the district’s music faculty in nurturing such excellence.




Academic Excellence and Honors
On October 16, nineteen seniors were inducted into the Cum Laude Society, recognizing their exceptional academic achievement. The ceremony included remarks from Principal Chris Walsh, 2024 inductee Rebecca Barnum, and Cum Laude Chapter President Dr. Sandra Abt, along with a musical performance by the BHHS Jazz Choir. Physics teacher Dennis Covert was also welcomed as a faculty inductee.

This year’s student honorees are:
Lilly Alonzo, Anika Bobra, Sienna Cavada, Max Charney, Joshua Goldman, Ariana Reese Guido, Matthew Ishkanian, Chase Keller, Tyler Kravitz, Alexander Lewis, Claire Mauney, Maxwell Moy, Angelina Nie, Amanda Olego, Emelyn Rasamny, Evan Reiss, Avni Sundaram, Allison Tsay, and Alexandra Zodda.



The district also proudly recognized 56 students inducted into the World Languages Honor Society on October 15 for their dedication to French, Italian, or Spanish.

Academic honors continued with recognition from the National Merit Scholarship Program.


Semifinalists: Claire Mauney, Angelina Nie, and Amanda Olego
 

Commended Students: Zachary Berman, Anika Bobra, Sienna Cavada, Max Charney, Noah Drazner, Joshua Goldman, Alexander Lewis, Maxwell Moy, Addison Petre, Avni Sundaram, Chase Tabankin, Allison Tsay, Elena Yu, and Alexandra Zodda

Global Scholars Leading through Innovation and Advocacy
Byram Hills Global Scholars are already making a positive impact this year. In October, students Shannon Moloney, Flavie Rondeau, Taylor Todman, Olivia Shulman, and Audrey Brown represented the school at the Westchester County International Day of the Girl Conference at Manhattanville University. They participated in workshops and discussions centered on leadership, gender equality, and the power of young voices to make meaningful change in communities both local and global.

Global Scholars also swept the 2024-2025 Ben Ferencz Creative Expression Competition, hosted by the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center.

First Place: Evan Thorsen, A Window Through Time (Digital), inspired by Cambodian photojournalist Dith Pran

Second Place: Zabelle Shil, The Pages They Could Not Burn (Mixed Media), honoring resistance fighter Vladka Meed

Third Place: Theodore Lashmet, But They Went On (Collage), symbolizing the perseverance of Nanjing Massacre survivor Xia Shuqin




School Spirit and Bobcat Pride
Districtwide Spirit Week and Homecoming took place from October 6 through 11, featuring themed spirit days across all schools. At the high school, athletics events packed the turf field and the week concluded with a high-energy pep rally.

Before Friday night’s football game, the Byram Hills Education Foundation hosted a ribbon-cutting to officially open the new Bobcat Alumni Walkway located behind the press box. Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia, Principal Chris Walsh, and Byram Hills Education Foundation President Michelle Rettagliata delivered remarks and expressed gratitude to alumni and supporters. With Wampus Elementary School students, Dr. Lamia cut the ribbon to recognize this special tribute linking current students and graduates across generations.

Student Government continues to create authentic leadership opportunities. With successful recent traditions including Winter Spirit Week, a revived Winter Dance, and the inaugural Battle of the Classes, Student Government will now have representation at the Board of Education through a senior student representative who will share student perspectives during board discussions.



Unified Sports and Inclusive Opportunities
Byram Hills continues to be recognized as a leader in Unified Sports. Teachers and coaches devote countless hours to building teamwork, friendship, and inclusion throughout the program.

This fall, Byram Hills was honored as a Special Olympics New York Champion Banner School. The district will proudly hang the banner in the gym as it pursues national status next. The Unified Flag Football team also took part in an unforgettable skills session with the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium through a collaboration with the NFL, NYSPHSAA, Special Olympics New York, and Section 1 Athletics. Unified Sports remains a defining point of pride in our school community.




Highlights from HCC, Wampus, and Coman Hill
  

Across H.C. Crittenden Middle School, Wampus Elementary School, and Coman Hill Elementary School, students are engaging in meaningful learning experiences every day. These highlights represent only a small sampling of the many wonderful things happening in our classrooms and school communities.

At H.C. Crittenden, students participated in outdoor team-building activities with their X-Pods, strengthening their communication skills, confidence, and cooperation. The Bobcat Boards initiative has also begun for the year, with each grade creating a themed display that reinforces social-emotional learning. Sixth grade is focusing on embracing change. Seventh grade is highlighting empathy. Eighth grade is cultivating character. The completed boards will brighten hallways and inspire everyone who passes by.

Across all three schools, Book Fairs supported by the PTSA created excitement and enthusiasm around reading. Students at Wampus and Coman Hill also participated in Bus Safety Week, learning important transportation and safety routines with help from the district’s transportation team.

At Wampus, the fall theater season brought two sold-out performances of The Lion King, JR. Students told the story of Simba’s journey from playful cub to courageous leader through captivating music and choreography.

At Coman Hill, students continue to grow academically, socially, and emotionally in a caring, supportive environment. Through strong foundational instruction and whole-child learning, students explore, collaborate, and build important early skills every day. During a recent schoolwide Community Meeting focused on kindness, Principal McInerney read Have You Filled a Bucket Today to encourage students to care for one another through simple, positive actions that uplift others.



A Remarkable Start to the Year
From academic accomplishments to artistic achievements, from athletic pride to community connection, Fall 2025 has already given us much to celebrate. We extend our gratitude to our students, staff, families, and supporters who contribute to the spirit and success of the Byram Hills School District.

We cannot wait to see what the rest of the year will bring and all the fantastic things our students will accomplish. Go Bobcats.

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Stay Connected With Us

Keep up with the latest news and highlights on our News Page.

Join us on Social Media for daily updates and celebrations:
Facebook.com/byramhillscsd
Instagram.com/byramhills
Twitter.com/byramhillscsd