Congratulations to Byram Hills senior Kathryn Petlyuk for being a recipient of the 2021 National Merit Scholarship.

Each year the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) recognizes and honors a select few academically talented students from across the United States. Students chosen for this award are high achieving, motivated, and contribute to their school and community Kathryn is an exemplary student and a brilliant young individual,'' said Byram Hills High School Counselor, Mr. Gary McCarthy.  He stated, “After three decades in school counseling, I have rarely had the privilege to work with a student as insightful, intellectually gifted, and as deeply devoted to family, friends, peers, and her community as Kathryn.  I know she will accomplish great things in the future.”

In addition to her stellar academic success, Kathryn is a competitive varsity athlete.  She is a member of the Student-Athlete Leadership Program and tutors younger peers in mathematics and Russian.  Kathryn has been accepted to several prestigious colleges and is interested in pursuing her studies in the field of engineering.

Byram Hills High School is proud to recognize Kathryn’s outstanding accomplishments and contributions to her school and community.   Scholarship recipients receive $2,500 toward their freshman year college tuition. 
 

Congratulations to Byram Hills senior Luke Briody for advancing to the finals of the 2021 U.S. Presidential Scholars Competition.  According to the U.S. Department of Education, Luke is one of 625 semifinalists to move to the final round in this most prestigious competition. 

“Luke Briody is an accomplished, well-rounded individual and valued member of the Byram Hills community,” said Kristina Wilson, Byram Hills Guidance Chairperson. “He is looking forward to a bright future at Brown University.” 

The U.S. Presidential Scholars Program was established in 1964, by Executive Order of the President, to recognize and honor some of our nation's most distinguished graduating high school seniors and their accomplishments in academic success, leadership, and service to school and community. Each year, up to 161 students are named Presidential Scholars, one of the nation's highest honors for high school students.

The mission of the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program is to promote student achievement and preparation for global competitiveness by fostering educational excellence and ensuring equal access. If circumstances permit, all scholars will be honored for their accomplishments during the National Recognition Program, usually an in-person program held in June in Washington, D.C.

Congratulations to Byram Hills junior, Lila Zacks, for receiving the 2021 St. Vincent's Hospital Youth Award. This prestigious award honors local high school students who best exemplify the hospital’s mission of charity, excellence in healthcare, and lifelong volunteering.

Lila has spent many years and countless hours volunteering at Pleasantville Cottage School, which helps children improve their lives through therapy and engagement. The school services children from seven to sixteen years of age.

During the pandemic, Lila also volunteered with a charity called 914 Cares. The organization accepts donations of clothing, diapers, and shoes for people in need.  Lila later became a member of the 914 Cares Advisory Board.

"Lila's dedication to her school and community is an inspiration.  She is a true community-builder,” said Mr. Gary McCarthy, Byram Hills High School Counselor. “Her commitment to organizations, such as the Grade Activities Board, High School Science Ambassadors, and her volunteer work at the Pleasantville Cottage School, are just a few examples of how she supports and enhances the education and well-being of her peers."

Although there will not be a traditional ceremony held in person this year, Lila’s accomplishments will be acknowledged through the U.S. Congressional Certificate of Achievement and the St.Vincent's Presidential Certificate.  The 2021 recipients will also be featured on the St.Vincent’s Youth Award website.
 

The Byram Hills Fine Arts Department is proud to present TWO virtual art shows premiering simultaneously on the Byram Hills website on May 12th at 6 pm.  
The K-12 Art Show will feature work from our youngest kindergarten students, our graduating seniors, and all students in-between.  Viewers will see the art world through the lens of children and their boundless imaginations.

The AP Art Show features artwork by students whose coursework includes AP Photo, AP Graphic Design, AP Studio Art, and AP 3-Dimensional Design.  Each AP art student will present a total of ten pieces, with many supporting their sustained investigations, a portfolio of related work.

In tandem with the Byram Hills Media Center, all 11 District art teachers collaborated to create a virtual experience for our community to celebrate the creativity of our young artists.  Much of the artwork includes written statements from the artist allowing the viewer to understand the creative mindset behind each work of art.  Our youngest learners engaged in conversations about art with their families before selecting an original piece for the art show.  Students scripted responses to a writing prompt which tapped into their emotional reactions to art.

“I am so proud of the student artwork that has been accomplished this year,” said Mr. Pete Pauliks, Byram Hills Director of Fine Arts.  “Our students deserve to have their art showcased and recognized by the Byram Hills community and beyond. What a treat!”
To view the Byram Hills Virtual Art Show on May 12th at 6:00 pm, please visit: byramhills.org/virtualartshow.

Congratulations to the Byram Hills 2021 Mock Trial Team for winning the Westchester County Mock Trial Championship. The team worked tirelessly through virtual practices and trials to defeat the #1 seed, Scarsdale High School.

The Mock Trial program allows high school students the opportunity to gain first-hand knowledge of civil/criminal law and the courtroom process. Thousands of students participate each year and gain a greater understanding of the law and the legal system.

The Mock Trial Tournament is set up as a competition.  Emphasis is placed on the educational aspect which focuses on the preparation and presentation of a hypothetical courtroom trial. High school teams argue both sides of a case and assume the roles of attorneys and witnesses. Team members enhance their critical reasoning and listening skills and ability to think on their feet.  They are judged on case presentation, following courtroom procedures, and professional etiquette.

The Mock Trial enriches the high school experience for many Byram Hills students, and winning the 2021 Westchester County Championship was a remarkable accomplishment.

The Byram Hills Mock Trial Team is coached by social studies teacher Mr. Martin Gilbert and lawyer/coach Mr. Eliot Schuman.


From top to bottom, left to right:
Chloe Weissman, Jon Manowitz, Max Teitelbaum, Zach Pero
Isabella Stillman, Jordyn Bernard, Mia Dittrich, Jake Fenster,
Lili Deitelzweig, Martin Gilbert (Advisor), John D’Avanzo, Elaina Piecyk 
 Missing from photo: Drew Siskin