The Varley Players at Byram Hills High School slipped into formal Victorian dress and perfected proper English to portray the high-society characters in Oscar Wilde's 1895 dramedy “An Ideal Husband.”

Taking place over 24 hours in London, the four-act play revolves around blackmail and political corruption and touches on the themes of public and private honor. 

The story begins at a dinner party with genteel socialites at the home of Sir Robert Chiltern, a prestigious member of the House of Commons, and his wife, Lady Chiltern. Their guests include Sir Robert’s friend, Lord Goring; his sister, Mabel Chiltern; and Mrs. Cheveley, Lady Chiltern’s enemy from their school days. 

During the party, Lady Chiltern attempts to blackmail Sir Robert into supporting a fraudulent scheme to build a canal in Argentina.

“An Ideal Husband” is a dense, dialogue-heavy play, and the students rose to the challenge.

“The language is so complicated, and to watch these actors understand the language and the relationships between the characters was very impressive,” said director Dr. Douglas Coates, the Byram Hills High School chorus and theater teacher. “They truly understood the meaning behind the dialogue, which was so important for telling the story in an accessible way.”

“The cast was amazing,” he added. “I couldn’t be any more proud of these students.”

Exploring the intricate social dynamics of Wilde’s world helped the actors appreciate the timelessness of human emotions and conflicts. “We study the classics because it’s important to understand that the human condition does not change,” Dr. Coates said.

Several cast members said being in the production was a great experience.

Senior Ashley Stangel took on the role of Mrs. Cheveley.

“Developing Mrs. Cheveley was an incredible experience, and one I will forever be grateful for,” she said. “Being the villain was difficult, but with the help of my peers and Dr. Coates, I was able to find her within myself. This production was a dream come true, and I really loved every second of it." 

Ashley added: “The cast was so talented, and to work with such a devoted group of people every day was amazing. For a show with difficult language, everyone rose to the occasion and proved themselves as an actor.”

Senior Aidan Lebowitz, who played Sir Robert, said working on the play was incredibly rewarding for him and the cast.

“The show pushed us to grow as both performers and people, and I feel that we all learned an enormous amount from the show,” he said. “Oscar Wilde's words challenged us to thoroughly understand language from over a century ago, and gave us a unique perspective on the world.”

Senior Eve Nepo, who played Lady Chiltern, said the play was very challenging because of the language and time period.

“This meant that the company had to do lots of research to get into our characters, including wearing some aspects of our costumes (corsets and dress shoes) through the entire rehearsal process to better understand how the society in 1890s England might walk, talk, and sit,” Eve said. “Because of this, I think this show really pushed me and other cast members as performers and actors. This challenge is what made the process so fun and rewarding and I'm so proud of our company.”

 

Wampus Elementary School fifth graders got their heads in the game and suited up in Wildcat’s red as they danced and dribbled across the stage in an uplifting performance of “Disney’s High School Musical JR.”  

The 50 students in the cast and crew worked together for two great shows on Nov. 8-9.

“The students did such an amazing job,” said Wampus music teacher Dana Celestino, the director. “It was a lot of fun, especially because the kids truly embraced the message of togetherness and kindness. They were so supportive of each other and kind and helpful as they were learning their parts, the songs and the choreography.”

The musical, based on the 2006 Disney Channel movie “High School Musical,” features Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez and their friends at East High as they navigate friendships, cliques and the tension of following expectations versus following their passions. 

Troy, a basketball star, and Gabriella, a science whiz, decide to try out for the spring musical along with their rivals, twins Ryan and Sharpay Evans, who have gotten the lead in every musical since kindergarten.

“The students all knew the show and all of the songs,” Ms. Celestino said. “They were really excited.”

The show featured intense choreography and iconic HSM songs including “We’re All in This Together,” “Get’cha Head in the Game,” and “Bop to the Top.” 

Students enjoyed being part of the “Start of Something New” and performing the musical.

Zelda Topolsky, who portrayed Sharpay, said the best part of her role was: “I got to be sassy to everybody but I also got to be funny. She’s like an unreal kind of person. She was way over the top. It was fun to play her.”

She also liked the “Bob to the Top” number. “That part was my favorite,” she said. “It was fun to dance and fun to sing, and it was funny.”

Noah Shapiro, who played Troy, said he felt proud to have played his biggest role yet. 

Performing, he said, “was fun, especially when all of the audience was really into it.” 

Zoe Kleinburd, who played Gabriella, said she was “really excited” to be on stage.
“It was really fun,” she said. “I enjoyed it.” 

The production was enhanced with the help of several Byram Hills High School students: stage manager Nicole Nassar; build crew members Amelina Milio and Sophia Ranzani; choreographers Zoe Harris and Rachel Geller; assistant director Liana Brown; and hair and makeup, Aidan Lebowitz and Ashley Stangel.

 

Welcome to Tennis Town.

The Byram Hills Girls Varsity Tennis team, which nabbed its third New York State Public High School Athletic Association Division II team championship, was celebrated with a victory parade through Armonk on Sunday. 

Byram Hills won the event’s inaugural team event in 2021 and again in 2022, making this year’s championship win the team’s third state title in four years. 

A truck decorated with Byram Hills red and blue and a championship sign carried the girls down Main Street as supporters cheered them on. Their float was preceded by emergency vehicles with celebratory sirens and lights, the booming Byram Hills drumline, cheerleaders and the Bobcat mascot, along with District and school officials.

The parade ended at North Castle Town Hall, where the girls gathered on the steps as school and community leaders congratulated them and their coach.

“I am so incredibly proud of the work they’ve done this year and the commitment they’ve had to building the program,” Byram Hills High School Principal Christopher Walsh said. “Byram Hills is known now as tennis town. It’s because of all the hard work they put in year-round and not just in the tournaments. I’m so thankful for all that they have done to make us so proud.”

Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia expressed gratitude “to these young women who have done so much for our school District, for our community and for themselves, individually and as a team.” 

“I am so proud to be your superintendent,” she added.

Rob Castagna, the Byram Hills Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics,
noted that hundreds of athletic teams throughout New York set goals at the beginning of every season.

“Some of the goals may seem impossible at times,” he said. “This team believed in each other and the ability to reach their goals and they believed that everything was possible, not impossible.”

Head coach Jessica Kaplan thanked everyone for their support. “Congratulations to the girls,” she said, noting that the championship is such a great achievement, “something you’ll remember for a long time.”

In her first year as coach of the girls team, the squad finished 12-2 in the regular season and 19-2 through the state championship. The team defeated Bayport Blue Point 4-1 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens on Nov. 8. to win the state championship.

North Castle Supervisor Joseph Rende celebrated the team’s athletic excellence. “You go through life, in your next years to come, you’ll always look back on this moment and I’m sure you’ll be proud of it,” he said.

He presented each girl with a certificate from the town recognizing the achievement.

Team captains Jordyn Bernstein and Jenna Kleynerman thanked the team’s supporters and the crowd walked to the state championship sign at the intersection of Old Route 22 and Main Street, where the newest entry was unveiled: Girls Tennis 2024.

In addition to the captains, the team is made up of Anika Bobra, Anisha Bobra, Amelia Deeks, Sophia Deeks, Layna Delk, Ava Gitler, Danielle Goldman, Eliza Moy, Emerson Pace, Charlotte Sanders and Katherine Shil.  

In Byram Hills history, which dates to 1966, Girls Varsity Tennis is the only girls team to have won a state title. The team holds three out of the school’s five state titles.

 

The Byram Hills Girls Varsity Tennis team captured the New York State Public High School Athletic Association team championship, its third state title in the four years the event has been held.

Byram Hills defeated Bayport Blue Point 4-1 at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens on Nov. 8. to win the Division II crown.

Byram Hills won in the event’s inaugural year, 2021, and again in 2022. Girls Varsity Tennis is the only girls team in Byram Hills history to have won a state title. The team holds three out of the school’s five state titles.

“Congratulations to our Varsity Girls Tennis team champions for another history-making victory,” said Rob Castagna, the District’s Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. 

The team was 12-2 in the regular season and 19-2 through the state championship.

“Individually, these girls were fantastic, but as a team they were unstoppable,” head coach Jessica Kaplan said. “Their teamwork is what got them the prize.” 

The team is made up of captains Jordyn Bernstein and Jenna Kleynerman along with Anika Bobra, Anisha Bobra, Amelia Deeks, Sophia Deeks, Layna Delk, Ava Gitler, Danielle Goldman, Eliza Moy, Emerson Pace, Charlotte Sanders and Katherine Shil.  

The team will be celebrated with a parade in Armonk on Sunday, November 24th at 9 a.m. The event begins at H.C. Crittenden Middle School and ends at North Castle Town Hall, where a ceremony will be held. The team name will be added to the championship sign at the intersection of Old Route 22 and Main Street.

 

Byram Hills High School four-time state tennis champion Jenna Kleynerman signed her Division I National Letter of Intent to play for Merrimack College and was celebrated at school by her coach, teammates, family, friends and school officials.

Jenna, a four-year varsity player and a senior captain, had a hugely successful high school career.

“Congratulations to Jenna on this outstanding accomplishment,” said Rob Castagna, the District’s Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics. “She is a tenacious competitor and one of the most decorated athletes in school history. The entire Byram Hills community is immensely proud of her.” 

In her senior season, she played first singles to help the Girls Varsity Tennis team win the New York State Public High School Athletic Association championship at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Queens on Nov. 8. Along with Katherine Shil, Jenna captured third in the state doubles championship earlier this fall.

Jenna is a four-time league champion and five-time Section One champion (twice for doubles and three times for the team event). She won the state championship in the team event in 2021 and 2022 and was also the state doubles champ in 2022.


 

The Wellness Center at Byram Hills High School got a major upgrade this year: a significant amount of new fitness equipment, thanks to a generous donation from the  Byram Hills Sports Hall of Fame.

The group purchased cardio machines — rowers, recumbent and upright bikes and elliptical machines — along with cable crossover machines, a large set of dumbbells and Byram Hills-branded bumper plates, used for weightlifting.

“Byram Hills is very grateful for this donation, which provided a significant upgrade to the equipment in our Wellness Center,” said Scott Saunders, the Byram Hills Assistant Director of Health, Physical Education, and Athletics. “The wide variety of equipment we now have offers many different forms of strength and cardio training and benefits all students and athletes at Byram Hills.”

Students use the Wellness Center during physical education classes, and can use it every day during lunch and after school when it is supervised. Athletic teams also use the workout area.

With the donation, most of the cardio equipment in the center is now new. The donation also brought the center its first rowing and cable crossover machines, further diversifying the equipment.

“The students love the new machines and weights and our coaches and teachers are excited too,” Mr. Saunders said.

On a recent Monday, students were enjoying a lunchtime workout, spotting each other and spending time with their friends.

Junior Ory Ardito, who usually works out at school every day, said the upgraded fitness room is great.

“It’s got everything you need,” he said. “It’s good to be here because it shows people the benefits of working out. I don’t know if every school has something like this but I think we’re lucky to have it.”

Ninth grader Alex Schor also comes every day at lunch. “I think it’s great,” he said. “It’s a nice gym.”

He is using his lunchtime workouts to prepare for wrestling season.

“It’s good for the off-season of sports,” Alex said. “I don’t have a fall sport. I’ve been coming in here getting workouts for my winter sport.”

The Hall of Fame, formed in 2015, recognizes the accomplishments of former athletes, teams and coaches who have made a significant and lasting impact on Byram Hills as a way to inspire members of the school and community.

Twenty-one Byram Hills High School seniors were recognized for their outstanding academic achievement as they were inducted into the Cum Laude Society.

The selection of the students, inducted on Oct. 17, was based on their GPAs.

The students are Keira Eckhardt, Sabrina Feng, Laurel Fox, Sophia Getz, Emily Goldman, Gabriel Goldman, Casey Goldstein, Zoe Harris, Chloe Kohl, Sebastian Lashmet, Andrew Levy,
Cooper Lipton, Julia Mahairas, Kayleigh McLaughlin, Sarina Metsch, Maya Molloy, Sarah Park,
Abigael Rondeau, Aaron Stein, Jordyn Wolf and Emmett Wolland.

In welcoming remarks, Principal Christopher Walsh congratulated the students, praised their hard work and dedication, and thanked their families for supporting them throughout their academic journey.

“I love this ceremony and what it signifies for our school,” he said. “It provides us with the opportunity to spotlight and celebrate these students whose outstanding academic achievement and attainment of scholarship set them apart,” he said.

When the inductees were just starting ninth grade, Mr. Walsh asked them to write their favorite quote or motto on an index card. He read their quotes at the induction ceremony, to share insights about them and what helped them reach this point.

“Be optimistic but realistic,” read one. “You can do it. Just keep trying. You’ll get it done. You just have to believe,” read another. A third said: “Be the best version of yourself and always keep your head up.”

“Hopefully, what you hear on these index cards continues to inspire you and hopefully it resonates with you about the person you were and the person that you’ve become,” Mr. Walsh told them. 

The quotes, he said, show “your commitment and your humor, your courage, your curiosity, your grit, your individuality and the overall belief in yourself. It’s important to remind yourselves of that from time to time.”

In the Cum Laude address, Mathematics Chairperson Lisa Pellegrino discussed vulnerability, an idea she decided on during last year’s induction ceremony as she watched the choir perform and saw the students being vulnerable as they sang. Vulnerability is important for students, she said.

“As a teacher, I try to make my classroom a safe space for all of my students to be able to succeed academically, a place that allows them to build stronger connections between themselves and with me, and a place that celebrates mistakes as learning opportunities, a place for them to have a deeper understanding of the material,” Ms. Pellegrino said. “But this can only happen if I build a space that is safe for them to take risks.”

She urged the students to allow themselves to be vulnerable.

“Continue to keep this vulnerability throughout your senior year, your college and beyond,” she said. “I can tell you as parents, we too feel vulnerable, watching you take risks and face challenges, but we trust in your ability to learn and to grow.”

The inductees were each called by name to receive a certificate and commemorative pin.

Dr. Sandra Abt, president of the Byram Hills chapter of the Cum Laude Society, congratulated the inductees and told them they have built an excellent foundation at Byram Hills.

“Cherish your remaining days here,” she said. “Appreciate the knowledge and skills you are learning. Appreciate your teachers and friends, strive to make a difference and do good. Don’t be complacent. Use the unexpected in your life and the occasional failure to make good choices. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.”

Dr. Abt announced the new faculty member of the society, mathematics teacher Rebecca Barnum.

The Jazz Choir performed “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “I Can’t Stop (How Can I Keep From Singing?). Senior Evan McCauley played piano selections at the start and end of the ceremony.

The Cum Laude Society, founded in 1906, honors scholastic achievement in secondary schools. There are 382 chapters, and some 4,000 students are inducted annually.

To view the induction ceremony, CLICK HERE.

Byram Hills High School inducted 67 seniors into the World Languages Honor Society, recognizing their academic achievements in French, Italian or Spanish. Three students were honored for excelling in two world languages.

“Your accomplishment is not just about acquiring skills, but about opening doors, doors that many people without a second or third language never even realize are there,” World Languages Chairperson Melissa Stahl told the students at the Oct. 8 induction ceremony in the high school theater.

She recounted her trip to Japan last summer, when there were moments she found herself lost, not only geographically, but also culturally.

“I quickly realized that knowing how to navigate a map or pointing to a menu image to order food wasn’t enough,” Ms. Stahl said. She missed out on small conversations, jokes that didn’t quite translate and the deeper meaning behind a simple greeting because she didn’t speak Japanese. 

Speaking another language, she said, allows us to understand the world a little better. “Language shapes how we think, how we view history, and how we relate to others,” Ms. Stahl said. “Without that deeper connection, you’re always seeing the world through a narrow lens.”

Ms. Stahl said her time in Japan reminded her of the importance of cultural competence. “It’s not just about knowing a language,” she said. “It’s about understanding the people.”

“Being able to speak to someone in their own language builds trust, empathy and respect,” she said. “It gives you a window into their worldview. Whether you go into business, medicine, law, or the arts, this cultural competence will be essential. It’s not just a career skill, it is a life skill.”

Ms. Stahl urged the inductees to “continue to grow your language skills, travel and immerse yourselves in new cultures.” 

“Each time you do, you peel back another layer of the world and of yourself,” she said. “In the end, knowing a language isn’t just about communication, it’s about connection, perspective, and ultimately, the opportunity to live a fuller, richer life.”

The keynote speaker was Nancy Sarro, a French and Spanish teacher at H.C. Crittenden Middle School who is retiring after 32 years in the District.

“Your commitment to studying a language and its culture has and will continue to be an asset in whatever you may choose to do in the future,” she told the inductees. “I’m so proud of all of you here today who have made that commitment and have proven to be la creme de le creme.”

Mrs. Sarro recalled her childhood as the daughter of immigrant parents. Her father speaks seven languages, her mother five, she said, and English was “not the language of choice in my home.”

In kindergarten, she committed to learning French, the language she studied until graduate school. “My goal then became to teach and make others love the power of speaking other languages like I do,” she said. 

Her father told her: “For each language you speak, you have another soul,” she recalled.

“I believe it’s a true gift to not only speak another language but to understand the cultural diversity that we live in today,” Mrs. Sarro said. “Cheers to you. Continue learning and accepting the cultures of others, build a strong mind, and you too, will be filled with many souls.  Congratulations.”

As the ceremony concluded, Ms. Stahl also congratulated the inductees. “Your accomplishments are amazing,” she said. “Continue to be stars when you go outside of Byram Hills,” she said.

Students must earn an A or A+ in their language class for three consecutive years to be eligible for membership in the honor society.

The students inducted were:

French
Sloane Dany
Sabrina Feng
Laurel Fox
Owen Lee
Nicole Lynch
Kayleigh McLaughlin
Gabriella Merli
Maya Molloy
Ella Saltstein

Italian
Alice Adelgren
Jake Alcorn
Sage Auster*
Remi Berliner
Harrison Boyd
Connor Dallas
Jason Daly
Jordan Daly
Antonia DeVincenzo*
Sydney Dordik
Perry Ertel
Alexandra Gann
Sarah Grech
Thomas James Guido
Zoe Harris
Cooper Lipton
Christopher Lombardi
Sarina Metsch
Alexandra Mon
Chiara Monteforte
Nicholas O’Donnell
Sophia Perrotta
Audrey Rosenberg*
Jake Rosenberg
Ava Schoenhaut
Emmett Wolland

Spanish
Sage Auster*
Tyler Bond
John Calvao
Lauren Chase
Alexis Cutier
Antonia DeVincenzo*
Keira Eckhardt
Eashan Goel
Alexa Goldberg
Emily Goldman
Gabriel Goldman
Casey Goldstein
Mark Kanner
Charlotte Karp
Samantha Keltz
Chloe Kohl
Inaara Lalani
Sebastian Lashmet
Andrew Levy
Thomas Levy
Maya Licznerski
Ethan Lipton
Julia Mahairas
Savannah Mathis
Isabella Pantusa
Evan Petta
Liam Porter
Harli Rappaport
Abigael Rondeau
Audrey Rosenberg*
Aaron Stein
Alana Vincequerra
Slater Weiss
Jordyn Wolf
Adrianna Zawojek

*Double language inductees

Eight Byram Hills High School seniors have been named Commended Students in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program, recognized for their exceptional academic promise.

The students are Emily Goldman, Casey Goldstein, Chloe Kohl, Sebastian Lashmet, Owen Lee, Julia Mahairas, Sarah Park and Emmett Wolland.

“Congratulations to our Byram Hills Commended Students,” Principal Christopher Walsh said. “We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and their hard work and dedication to their studies that led to this honor.”

The students placed among the top 50,000 students who entered the scholarship competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test last year. Of those, about 34,000 were recognized as Commended Students and recognized for their outstanding performance on the test.


Emily Goldman, Casey Goldstein, Chloe Kohl, Sebastian Lashmet, Owen Lee, Julia Mahairas (not pictured), Sarah Park, and Emmett Wolland.

Eleven Byram Hills High School student-musicians have received Westchester County School Music Association honors and were chosen to participate in the Area All-State Ensembles this fall.

The competitive selection process was based on the students’ scores at the New York State School Music Association solo festivals in the spring.

“We are proud of the strong showing by our talented students and excited for them to perform with the Area All-State Ensembles,” Director of Fine Arts Marc Beja said. 

The students will have three rehearsals before a final performance on Nov. 2-3 at New Rochelle High School.

The students are:

Senior Lauren Chase – Violin, Symphony Orchestra 
Senior Paley Kirschner – Alto, Treble Choir
Senior Aidan Lebowitz – Tenor, Mixed Choir 
Junior Max Leopold – Tenor, Mixed Choir
Senior Aiden Lipton – Tenor, Mixed Choir (not pictured)
Junior Emi Nagura – Alto, Mixed Choir 
Sophomore Lucas Rivalsi – Trumpet, Band (Alternate) 
Sophomore Darby Schlosser – Soprano, Treble Choir 
Sophomore Kendall Sorenson – Soprano, Treble Choir
Junior Avni Sundaram – Violin, String Orchestra 
Junior Alexandra Zodda – String Bass, String Orchestra

Aiden Lipton not pictured.

 

 

There were elements of animal life and human life, monsters, nature, buildings, and even a shoe along with shapes that defied a category. Sixth graders at H.C. Crittenden Middle School followed their intuition and let their imagination run free as they created their first art project of the year.

Called Fantastical Forms, this new open-ended sculpture project was intended to help students become comfortable in the art room as they let the materials guide their creativity.

“Rather than working from an image or even brainstorming ideas, the students just began building, deciding what their sculpture would become as they began manipulating the materials,” art teacher Joanna Bergelson said.

Students first built a vertical framework using an empty plastic bottle, a chopstick and tape and used newsprint and cardboard to build their piece around the frame. They painted their sculpture, adding details and patterns like paint splatters or polka dots.

“I was astounded at the variety of the work,” Ms. Bergelson said. “The students went in so many different directions and they were all equally successful. These sculptures represent the distinct personalities and creativity of the students.”

Students loved the freedom to create what they wanted. 

Sixth grader Aleksander Nezaj fashioned a giraffe, an animal he likes. “We had a lot of freedom and we got to choose whatever we wanted to do,” he said. “It was nice.”

While some students created a specific object for their sculpture, like a tree or a shoe, others made a collection of shapes and colors. One sculpture was made up of several animals: a bunny, giraffe, cat and moose.

Whatever they made, the students enjoyed the project. 

“It’s a lot of fun and I’m having a good time,” said Ruby Schechtman, who created a shoe. “I liked being able to decide what I want to make.”

Rocco Minutillo liked that he got to express himself as he created a volcano. “I wanted to make something exciting,” he said.

Selina Lu sculpted a sunrise with wings. “You can kind of make whatever you want,” she said. “It doesn’t even have to be an actual thing and you can paint it any color you want.”

The Fantastical Forms were a great introduction to art at the middle school.

“This project gives students the chance to explore and feel successful, which gives them confidence to move on to projects that are more planned,” Ms. Bergelson said.



 

Byram Hills High School junior Evan Reiss has earned prestigious All-State honors from the New York State School Music Association and was selected for the NYSSMA All-State Mixed Chorus performance in Rochester, New York, in December.

Evan, a member of the bass section, was selected from thousands of students who auditioned in the spring at music festivals throughout New York.

“I was thrilled to be selected for All-State Mixed Chorus,” Evan said. “The process working up to it was very rigorous and I had worked really hard, so it felt great to be recognized. I'm honored that I get to perform with other musicians from across the state!”

Byram Hills Director of Fine Arts Marc Beja applauded Evan’s selection.

“Congratulations to Evan on receiving a perfect 100 score on his NYSSMA solo and being selected to the All-State Mixed Chorus,” he said. “Not only is Evan a talented singer, but he has also performed as a cellist in the orchestra and as an actor in several Varley Players productions at Byram Hills High School.”

“Byram Hills musicians continue to excel and be recognized for their accomplishments throughout the county and state with guidance from our outstanding music faculty and incredible support from our District and the community,” Mr. Beja added.

The All-State performances will be held on Dec. 7-8 at NYSSMA’s winter conference.

 

Five seniors at Byram Hills High School were chosen as semifinalists in the 2025 National Merit Scholarship Program, an honor that allows them to compete for 6,870 scholarships worth nearly $26 million. 

The semifinalists are Zoe Harris, Andrew Levy, Olivia Long, Sarina Metsch and Aaron Stein.

More than 1.3 million high school students entered the scholarship competition last year as juniors by taking the Preliminary SAT, which serves as an initial screening. The Byram Hills students are among more than 16,000 semifinalists, academically talented students who represent less than 1% of U.S. high school seniors. The nationwide group of semifinalists includes the highest-scoring entrants in each state.

“Congratulations to our Byram Hills High School National Merit semifinalists,” Principal Christopher Walsh said. “I am thrilled that they are being recognized for their achievement. They all worked so hard and we are proud of this accomplishment.”

Guidance Chairperson Kristina Wilson also commended the students. 

“Congratulations to our outstanding 2025 National Merit semifinalists,” Ms. Wilson said. “Your hard work, dedication, and academic excellence have brought immense pride to our school District. This achievement is a testament to your perseverance and commitment to success. We are incredibly proud of each of you and excited to see where your bright futures will lead.”

To become a finalist, students must submit an application that provides information about their academic record, participation in school and community activities, demonstrated leadership abilities, work, honors and awards. They must write an essay and earn standardized test scores that confirm their earlier performance on the qualifying test. 

Most of the semifinalists are expected to become finalists, and about half of the finalists will win a scholarship and the Merit Scholar title. The finalists will be announced in February, and the scholarship winners will be announced from April to July. 

The winners are selected for their skills, accomplishments and potential for success in rigorous college studies.

Five Byram Hills High School seniors have been selected as National Merit Scholarship semifinalists. They are, from left, Zoe Harris, Andrew Levy, Sarina Metsch, and Aaron Stein. Olivia Long is not pictured.

Byram Hills High School proudly announced that this year’s valedictorian is Grace Lin and the salutatorian is Daniel Ndocaj.

“Congratulations to Grace and Daniel on being named valedictorian and salutatorian of the Byram Hills High School Class of 2024,” said Principal Christopher Walsh, who announced the names of the top-ranked students to applause during graduation rehearsal on June 12.

“The achievement is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and excellence throughout their four years at BHHS,” he added. “Their perseverance and commitment have truly been remarkable.”

The students, who have the highest weighted GPAs, will each deliver a speech at graduation on June 20.

Grace will attend the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and plans to double major in mathematics and computer science.

“It’s an honor to be named valedictorian among such a talented graduating class,” Grace said. 
“My teachers at Byram Hills have been remarkably supportive and dedicated. I’d like to thank them, along with my fellow classmates, for always inspiring and motivating me.” 

Byram Hills, she said, has prepared her well for life after high school. “My teachers have taught me to constantly strive for improvement in all aspects of my life,” Grace said. “I’ve learned from the passion and dedication of everyone around me - both the teachers and the students.”

A mathlete since middle school, Grace has represented the Westchester Area Math Circle (WAMC) in many national and international competitions. In her junior year, her WAMC team won first overall at the Harvard-MIT Mathematics Tournament, and she was captain of the WAMC team that won second overall at the Girls in Math at Yale competition.

Grace qualified for the rigorous American Invitational Mathematics Examination all four years of high school, and was invited to the Math Prize for Girls, where the top female high school scorers nationwide compete.

She also volunteers with WAMC, teaching math to middle school students and encouraging them to think in new ways when solving problems. Grace, who founded a summer math program and taught a year-round program, won the WAMC Community Service and Leadership Award. 

Grace is part of the three-year Byram Hills Authentic Science Research Program, and her award-winning work was published in the journal Environmental Challenges. Her research 
used mathematical models to quantify the recreation use value of U.S. natural lands to help guide data-driven environmental policy decisions. 

At Byram Hills, Grace is co-captain of the Math and Academic Challenge teams. She is also a member of the Cum Laude Society, which recognizes outstanding academic excellence, the World Language Honor Society for Spanish, and the Mu Alpha Theta mathematics honor society. 

As a junior, Grace won the Harvard Prize Book Award, the Byram Hills mathematics award for outstanding junior, and the Science Research award for outstanding junior. As a senior, she won the Abe Shahim Science Research Award.

Beyond academics, Grace is a dancer. She has been training in ballet, contemporary, lyrical and jazz since age 7 and has won numerous group and solo awards in regional and national competitions.

Daniel will study materials science and engineering at Columbia University.

“I am honored to be named salutatorian,” Daniel said. “It's gratifying to see my hard work realized in this achievement. I’m very grateful for the unwavering support of my teachers, family and friends.”

Daniel said Byram Hills has “enabled me to pursue my passions and nurture my curiosity.” He added: “It’s given me a solid background in the skills necessary to thrive beyond high school.”

At Byram Hills, Daniel is vice president of the Mu Alpha Theta mathematics honor society, co-captain of the Academic Challenge team and was part of a team that reached the national semifinals his sophomore year, co-president of Science Olympiad, and a member of the World Language Honor Society for Italian. 

He is also part of the three-year Authentic Science Research Program. With his work that demonstrated an approach using nanostructures to produce brighter images that could help scientists with gene and cancer research, he was a semifinalist in the prestigious Regeneron Science Talent Search. 

Daniel is a member of the Cum Laude Society, which recognizes outstanding academic excellence, a candidate in the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program and a National Merit Scholarship finalist.

As a senior, Daniel won the Byram Hills Award for Excellence in Science and the World Language Award for general excellence in Italian. As a junior, he won the Harvard Prize Book Award and the Byram Hills Award for Potential in Science.

Just as he did with his science research journey, exploring various topics until he found what interested him, Daniel urges younger Byram Hills students to keep an open mind and pursue different areas. “High school is the time to explore and discover new passions,” he said.

 

Byram Hills High School recognized dozens of juniors and seniors during the annual Awards Ceremony, where they were celebrated by family, friends and the school community. 

“We are gathered here tonight to highlight and celebrate the individual achievements and accomplishments of the students gathered here on stage,” Principal Christopher Walsh said in the high school theater at the May 29 ceremony. 

For the seniors, it was another event that signaled the end of their time in high school. “Over the last four years, they have shown the remarkable ability to improvise, adapt and overcome the challenges that have faced them,” Mr. Walsh said.

The juniors, he said, will continue their growth in leadership, academics, athletics, the arts, community service and civic engagement over the coming years. “This evening should be a reminder to them to enjoy all that high school has to offer,” he said.

The students were recognized with awards and scholarships at the department, building and District levels as well as the local, state, national and international levels and by many organizations including Section 1 Athletics, New York State Athletics, Con Edison, the New York State School Music Association, Regeneron, the College Board, National Merit, and the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

The highest honor for a senior came in the final award of the evening. The Hy Blatte-Jack Wollenberg Award is given to a student with a humanitarian outlook, a willingness to extend herself for others, and an optimistic approach to life and its challenges. The winner received a $1,000 scholarship from the PTSA, $100 to be donated to a charity of her choice and the opportunity to give a speech. 

Mr. Walsh introduced the recipient, Julia Tusiani, known for her exceptional kindness and welcoming spirit.

“She is a student who leads by example and is known for her friendliness, optimism and genuine positive outlook,” Mr. Walsh said. “I have had the privilege of witnessing her exceptional qualities, leadership and unwavering dedication to service and advocacy during her four years at Byram Hills High School.”

In her speech, Julia talked about the identities that students gained in high school, like varsity athlete or club president, as they worked toward reaching their goals. She discovered that “the essence of life isn’t solely captured by the question, ‘What are you going to do?’ It’s better framed as, ‘Who are you going to be?’”

“Labels can hold great significance, but they are not everlasting,” she said. “The crucial question emerges when these labels fade. Who are you as a person when these labels cease to exist?”

Consider people based on their intrinsic qualities and attitudes, Julia said, rather than their occupations.

“Let’s strive to see others through the lens of empathy, kindness, and appreciation,” she said. “Our worth extends far beyond what we do.” 

“In a world often preoccupied with achievements and titles, let’s choose to cherish the beauty of each individual’s soul, celebrating what makes each of us unique,” she said to loud applause. She will donate the $100 to Adopt-a-Dog Armonk.

The other top award, which came with a $1,000 scholarship, was the PTSA Caruolo Leadership Award. Assistant Principal Jennifer Spirelli announced the winner as a student on the leadership board with an exceptional character and a stellar academic record: Zachary Pero. 

Dozens of students were recognized during the ceremony, where they were applauded by classmates, relatives and the school community.

The complete list of winners: 

GUIDANCE AWARDS

JAMIE TESTA ONWARD AND UPWARD SCHOLARSHIP
Given to a senior who shows exemplary commitment to helping others and dedication to public service.
DREW SHAPIRO

MICHAEL TYLER FISHER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Presented to a senior who demonstrates care for others and the community,
as Michael had exemplified.
BENJAMIN LEVY

NORTH CASTLE POLICE BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIP
Presented to a senior who has shown academic excellence and a commitment
to the North Castle community.
REBECCA DIPIETRO
 

ARMONK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARD
Awarded to a senior who has demonstrated impressive business acumen, responsibility and dedication either as an employee of a local business establishment or as an entrepreneur.
ZACHARY GOLDMAN

ROGER CASE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Given to a senior for academic achievement and outstanding community service.
AYAKA AMMON

THE NEW YORK STATE COMPTROLLER’S
2024 STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
Given to seniors for academic achievement and outstanding community service.
JACOB FENSTER
SHRUTHI FRANKLIN

UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA JEFFERSON BOOK AWARD
Presented to a junior who embraces creativity and innovation, and embodies the spirit of discovery, much like the University’s founder, Thomas Jefferson.  The student is a demonstrated citizen leader who works to improve their community locally or globally.
SOPHIA GETZ

SMITH COLLEGE BOOK AWARD
Awarded to a junior who combines academic excellence with participation in extracurricular activities and a commitment to community service.    
KEIRA ECKHARDT

YALE UNIVERSITY BOOK AWARD
Presented to a junior in recognition of outstanding personal character and intellectual promise with diverse skills and leadership qualities.
SARAH PARK

UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA BOOK AWARD
Given to a junior with outstanding character and high academic achievement, who provides important service to school or community.
SARINA METSCH

BRANDEIS BOOK AWARD
Presented to an outstanding junior who demonstrates a commitment to civic engagement, community service, political activism, social justice, or volunteer work.
JORDYN WOLF

UNIVERSITY OF CHICAGO BOOK AWARD
Presented to a junior who has demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and scholarly research in a rigorous college preparatory program. 
COOPER LIPTON

HARVARD PRIZE BOOK AWARD
Given to outstanding juniors who display excellence in scholarship, character and commitment to others.
CHLOE KOHL
ANDREW LEVY

CLARKSON UNIVERSITY ACHIEVEMENT AND LEADERSHIP AWARDS
Given to juniors having an academic interest in engineering, business, science or liberal arts.
Achievement Award: SEBASTIAN LASHMET
Leadership Award: AARON STEIN

PRINCETON UNIVERSITY BOOK AWARD
Presented to an academically outstanding junior who demonstrates intellectual leadership and strong character.  This student also best exemplifies the spirit behind Princeton’s motto, “In the Nation’s Service and in the Service of Humanity.”
KAYLEIGH MCLAUGHLIN

TULANE UNIVERSITY BOOK AWARD
Awarded to a junior who embodies Tulane’s motto “Not for one’s self, but for one’s own” and is a true servant leader.
MAYA MOLLOY

DARTMOUTH COLLEGE BOOK AWARD
Awarded to juniors who exhibit excellent academic achievement and who contribute to the extracurricular activities of the school.
ZOE HARRIS
CASEY GOLDSTEIN

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN
OUTSTANDING STUDENT AWARD
VANESSA ROSSI

ENGLISH AWARDS

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF UNIVERSITY WOMEN
EXCELLENCE IN WRITING AWARD
SHRUTHI FRANKLIN

SENIOR ENGLISH AWARDS
for outstanding senior English students.
JACOB FENSTER
LILA RAFF

ED WALZER WRITING AWARD
This award was established by the family of Ed Walzer, a graduate of Byram Hills who went on to have a career as a writer.  The family has asked that the English department present the award to dedicated writers in the hope that they will pursue their passion for writing.
CHARLIE ROSEE

THE YEARBOOK AWARD
CHARLOTTE BRODBECK
CARISSA CHUNG

SOCIAL STUDIES AWARDS
SOCIAL STUDIES OUTSTANDING JUNIOR AWARD
Awarded to an exceptional junior who has achieved outstanding scholarship in the subject of Social Studies.
ANDREW LEVY

SOCIAL SCIENCES AWARD
Given to a senior who has shown exceptional growth in the field of Social Studies.
MATTHEW MACKO
 

NORTH CASTLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY AWARD
Given to a senior who has excelled in American History, European History, and/or the senior electives.
JACK HERMAN

HISTORY AND SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT AWARD
Presented to a senior who is an outstanding and serious history scholar.
SAMARA BROWN

THE NORTH CASTLE HISTORICAL SOCIETY HISTORICAL RESEARCH AWARD IN HONOR OF RICHARD LANDER AND DORIS FINCH WATSON
Given to a student who has an interest and passion in historic research to honor North Castle’s late town historians.
CHARLOTTE BRODBECK

MATHEMATICS AWARDS

STUDENT RECOGNITION PROGRAM
for outstanding achievement in Mathematics.
Outstanding Senior: BENJAMIN CURLEY
Outstanding Junior: SARINA METSCH
 

THE KEN HAMILTON MEMORIAL AWARD
Given to a senior who has displayed exceptional skills in software design, programming, systems analysis and hardware configuration; and who demonstrates excellent understanding and appreciation of computer science. 
GREGORY PARENT

RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE AWARD
for outstanding achievement in Math/Science.
AARON STEIN

SCIENCE AWARDS

THE FARADAY AWARD
Presented to a senior who can manage long-term projects from inception to conclusion and create solutions in non-traditional ways.
YICHENG YANG

BYRAM HILLS AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE
Awarded to an outstanding senior for excellence in science.
DANIEL NDOCAJ

BAUSCH & LOMB AWARD
Presented to an outstanding junior science student.
SEBASTIAN LASHMET

BYRAM HILLS AWARD FOR POTENTIAL IN SCIENCE
Awarded to an outstanding junior for potential in science.
CHLOE KOHL

WORLD LANGUAGES AWARDS

WORLD LANGUAGE AWARD
Honors the senior that has demonstrated a superior command of the language:
For general excellence in French: AYAKA AMMON
For general excellence in Italian: DANIEL NDOCAJ
For general excellence in Spanish: MARGARET POLLACK

THE DUAL LANGUAGE AWARD
Awarded to a senior that has demonstrated a superior command of two upper level languages, taken concurrently.
JACK HERMAN


FINE ARTS AWARDS

PTSA ARTS SCHOLARSHIP
SAMARA BROWN
ISABELLA RIVALSI

BYRAM HILLS HIGH SCHOOL ART AWARD
RUBY SMALHEISER

SENIOR AWARD:  COMMITMENT TO THE ARTS
CARISSA CHUNG

BOBCAT MARKETING AND MEDIA AWARD
CHARLIE JACOBS

THE NATIONAL SCHOOL ORCHESTRA AWARD
WYATT CHARRON
NICOLE FENG

THE LOUIS ARMSTRONG JAZZ AWARD
GAVIN WEBSTER

THE JOHN PHILIP SOUSA NATIONAL BAND AWARD
HARRISON GOLDIN
AARON LESTZ

THE NATIONAL CHORAL AWARD
MORGAN HECHT
VALENTINA MARINO

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AWARDS

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AWARD
KILEY BLACKMAR
ETHAN LEWIS

PRINCIPAL’S AWARDS

VINCENT GRECO AWARD
Presented to a senior who has demonstrated resilience and has been a positive contributor to the Byram Hills High School community.
KATERYNA OLIINYK

MICHELE DELAMONICO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
This award celebrates the memory of a beloved teacher, colleague, mentor, and club advisor at Byram Hills High School.  The BHTA and the BHAA honor a senior student who exhibits the qualities that Michele was known for; resilience, love of learning, collaboration, service to others, sense of humor, and academic engagement.  Michele gave back to our community in many ways.  She left behind a legacy of care, commitment, and community building.  The award will be given to a student who personifies those ideals.
SARAH TILLINGER

PTSA CARUOLO LEADERSHIP AWARD
This award is granted to a senior on the basis of leadership, character, dedication, loyalty, humanity, and interest in education.
ZACHARY PERO

HY BLATTE-JACK WOLLENBERG MEMORIAL AWARD
This award goes to a senior who has a humanitarian outlook, a willingness to extend herself for others, and an optimistic approach to life and its challenges.
JULIA TUSIANI

 

The Varley Players at Byram Hills High School charmed audiences with a heartwarming trip filled with love and loss to the imaginary place called Almost, Maine.

“Congratulations to the cast and crew of Almost, Maine,” said director Dr. Douglas Coates, the Byram Hills chorus and theater teacher. “I am exceptionally proud of our students. Their dedication was remarkable.”

The 2004 play by John Cariani is told in vignettes and set in a span of 10 minutes on a winter Friday night, capturing a snapshot of ordinary lives touched by the extraordinary. With a nod to Shakespeare’s comedies, the play has been called “A Midwinter Night’s Dream,” Dr. Coates said, with the magic of love and serendipity.

Almost, Maine, performed on May 17 and 18, portrays regular people grappling with universal themes amid the backdrop of rural America. The characters, grounded in small-town life, navigate the complexities of poverty, unemployment, addiction and the bittersweet undercurrents of hope and despair.

“In embracing the challenge of bringing their characters to life, the students demonstrated remarkable insight and empathy,” Dr. Coates said. “Stepping beyond the confines of their own experiences, they delved into the lives of others, discovering shared humanity amid diverse circumstances.”

“Their portrayal of the joys and challenges faced by the residents of ‘Almost’ reflects not only their talent but also their deep understanding of the human condition,” he added. “Through their terrific performances, they have illuminated the universality of human emotions, bridging the gap between different worlds with sensitivity and grace.”

Junior Sophia Getz, who played Hope, said the casting was amazing and the show brought the cast and crew close together.

“In this production, I was able to understand my character on an extremely personal level and really bond with both cast and crew members,” she said. “In my senior year, I genuinely can’t wait to continue building the amazing environment and relationships that bloomed in Almost, Maine. I can’t believe it all went by so fast.”

Junior Paley Kirschner played Rhonda, a tough, outdoorsy girl who works at Bushey’s Lumber Mill and loves snowmobiling. Rhonda isn’t your typical romantic lead, Paley says, “she’s strong, energetic, and a bit gruff, which made her a really fun and challenging character to bring to life.” 

“Almost, Maine is a play that stays with you,” Paley adds. “It reminds us that love is everywhere, even in the coldest, most unexpected places. It taught me a lot about stepping out of my comfort zone and embracing the unknown, much like Rhonda does. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a beautiful production and to share this story with our audience.”
Jackson Pravda, who played Phil, said: “This is the most beautiful show I have ever been a part of. From the Northern Lights to the beautiful sets, this show constructs a gorgeous and cohesive setting to build a story upon.”

“The design of Almost, Maine has many different scenes with many different characters where all of them are in love, falling in love, or falling out of love,” said Jackson, also a junior. “The thought process of how to portray such intense emotions was a great learning process for everybody. The dedication of the entire cast was crucial in the process of bringing it before an audience on stage.”

 

Voters passed the Byram Hills Central School District’s 2024-2025 budget and the use of capital reserve funds for the Lights, Learning, Action! renovation project at Byram Hills High School.

The budget passed with 1,018 yes to 161 no votes and the capital project was passed with  1,018 yes to #162 no votes in the May 21, 2024 election.

The $103,464,726 budget reflects a budget-to-budget increase of 3.75% and a 3.28% increase in the tax levy. The budget remains within the tax cap while maintaining class size guidelines, all academic programs that have supported student success, all athletic and extracurricular programs and all transportation services.

Voters also passed a proposition that allows the District to use $8 million from the Capital Reserve Fund for Lights, Learning, Action! The multiyear renovation project at the high school would create The Learning Commons, a reconstruction of the library, hallway and lecture hall; install a turf field; and add lighting on all fields and courts. 

“Thank you to our school community voters for passing the 2024-2025 school budget and for supporting the renovation project at Byram Hills High School,” Superintendent Dr. Jen Lamia said.

“The budget, which is within the tax levy limit, will allow for continued high-quality education and programs for all students,” she said. “The renovation project will create the 21st-century learning spaces that our students need and deserve. The enhancements to our athletic facilities will extend field usage and provide opportunities for exciting evening events. We are grateful for the continued support of our wonderful community.”

Incumbent trustees Scott Levy and Petrie Verma were elected to the Board of Education for three-year terms.

Board of Education vote totals:

Scott Levy - 1,003
Petri Verma - 816 
Diana Barrera Torre - 352
Write in - 15

Byram Hills High School senior Samara Brown won a $2,500 National Merit Scholarship. She is one of 2,500 Merit Scholars chosen from more than 15,000 finalists in the 2024 National Merit Scholarship Program.

The National Merit $2,500 Scholarship winners are the finalists from each state found to have the strongest mix of accomplishments, skills and potential to succeed in rigorous college studies, according to the National Merit Scholarship Corp.

Samara will attend Wesleyan University and plans to major in English, for creative writing or literature.

“This impressive achievement does not surprise me given Samara's extraordinary motivation and intellectual curiosity,” said her school counselor, Keara Hunt. “Samara is a gifted student who excels in all academic areas while always remaining true to herself. This scholarship is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and exceptional abilities. I know that Samara will continue to make outstanding contributions in college and beyond.”

The scholarship winners were chosen by a committee of college admissions officers and high school counselors who reviewed the students’ academic record, scores from the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, contributions and leadership in school and community activities, an essay and a recommendation from a high school official.

Students entered the National Merit Scholarship competition by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test as juniors, which served as an initial screening.
 

At a ceremonial signing day event attended by proud family members, students and school officials, Byram Hills High School celebrated nine student-athletes who have committed to playing their sport in college next year. 

“We recognize and honor nine outstanding student-athletes taking their craft, their sport, to the next level,” Rob Castagna, the District’s director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics, said at the April 29 event. “These remarkable seniors have dedicated countless hours to training, competing and achieving excellence in their respective sports.”
 
The students are Dario Amicucci, High Point University, track and field; Anastasia Byrnes, American University, lacrosse; Grace Corelli, University of Rochester, basketball;
Billy Gillespie, College of the Holy Cross, soccer; Jack Quinn, Hamilton College, football; Tyson Repa, Union College, basketball; Elsa Rolfs, University of Wisconsin-Madison, rowing; Mike Torre, Merrimack College, golf; and Nikolet Vataj, Sarah Lawrence College, volleyball.

Before introducing the students and highlighting their accomplishments, Byram Hills teacher and boys soccer coach Matt Allen applauded them for investing in themselves, their sport and their community.

“You represent the best of high school athletics and now you carry the torch for us, yet wear a different jersey,” he said. “Just remember, success comes from investment. So please, enjoy your ride, but remember to invest yourself. Immerse yourself in the love and passion for the sport. In essence, be Bobcats.”

A closer look at the athletes:

Dario Amicucci, High Point University, track and field, Division I: Dario is a stellar athlete who runs with great intensity and power. He holds the Byram Hills record for the 55 meter, with a time of 6.61 during the 2024 indoor season, and the 100-meter record, with a time of 10.98.


Anastasia Byrnes, American University, lacrosse, Division I: Anastasia is a two-year varsity captain, appeared on the LoHud Girls Lacrosse watchlist for four years, a four-year All-League player, three-year All-Section player and is the Byram Hills all-time leading scorer. 

She is also a senior mentor and a peer tutor at Byram Hills, a Con Edison Scholar Athlete Award winner, and a Sylvia Rodgers Scholarship award winner; she finished first nationally in a Global Changemaker Project, competing against 200 other applicants.


Grace Corelli, University of Rochester, basketball: Grace was a four-year All-League player, reaching the regional championship game in ninth grade alongside her older sister, Beth. In 10th grade, she was All-Conference and league co-MVP, in 11th grade, she was All-Conference, All-Section and league MVP, and in her senior year, she was All-Conference, All-Section and a 1,000-point scorer. She also was a four-year varsity soccer player, and served as captain.

At Byram Hills, she is a high school science ambassador, a chemistry teaching assistant, a member of FAST, a peer tutor, and a religion teacher at St. Anthony’s.


Billy Gillespie, College of the Holy Cross, soccer, Division I: Billy played for Byram Hills for his senior season, giving it his all. He finished with 17 goals, made incredible plays to lead the team to a state final and was named Bobcat of the Season in the fall. A highlight came when he made a no-look pass in overtime to seal the win that advanced Byram to the state final.


Jack Quinn, Hamilton College, football: Jack has been an invaluable team member since sophomore year, starting on offense and defense. He is fast, strong and talented, with a unique, tactical approach. He was All-Section, All-League, won the Golden Dozen Award, was team MVP, and had 92 solo tackles in eight games. He also played lacrosse and is the Byram Hills all-time saves leader.

Tyson Repa, Union College, basketball: This past season, Tyson guided the Bobcats to a sectional title, with an average of 18.8 points a game, six rebounds and five assists. While he finished his high school career with 1,070 points and was a well-rounded player, he was known for getting his teammates involved. This year, he was first team All-Section, league MVP, All-State and named one of the top players in Westchester County. He is the first player in Byram Hills history to win All-State first team honors.


Elsa Rolfs, University of Wisconsin-Madison, rowing, Division I: Elsa is an outstanding lightweight rower who trained with RowAmerica Rye. She has competed in four national championships and finished in the top 250 in the World ERG Challenge. 

Mike Torre, Merrimack College, golf, Division I: Mike is a phenomenal golfer and has excelled as a player, improving every year. He finished 12th in the sectional finals last year. He shot a career low 65 as well, making his score among the top in Westchester County. 

Nikolet Vataj, Sarah Lawrence College, volleyball: The team’s great success this year was due in large part to Nikolet’s performance, leadership and passion. This past season, she was the Conference Player of the Year and named to the All-State first team, with 299 kills, 79 aces, 230 digs. In the playoffs, she had 19 aces and 122 kills.





 

Byram Hills High School inducted 56 students into the Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, celebrating their hard work, achievements and commitment to math-related service activities including the much-loved puzzle day event.

“It is a pleasure to be here tonight to celebrate the mathematical accomplishments of each and every student standing up here,” math teacher and Mu Alpha Theta adviser Elyse Cohen said at the April 25 induction ceremony. “These students have worked hard to be in the seats they are in today.”

For membership, students need an A average in at least two levels of high school math and must perform 10 hours of community service. At least half of the hours must be devoted to Mu Alpha Theta activities like puzzle day and tutoring students at the high school and H.C. Crittenden Middle School.

At the ceremony, the honor society officers discussed the history of mathematics and shared their reflections on the Byram Hills math program.

Daniel Ndocaj, the vice president, noted that math is different than other subjects. When preparing for a math test, he’s often heard the general advice that “all you need to know is everything you’ve ever learned in math.” 

“When I look back on my math journey at Byram Hills, the moments that especially stick out are those times when a previously learned concept is applied to solve new problems, especially when we would have never thought to do so,” he said. “Math encourages not just pattern recognition, but also curiosity to understand what can be applied where, and how it all fits together.”

Noting that he plans to major in engineering in college, he said, “I feel well prepared and confident that I can thrive, not necessarily because of the math I learned, but more importantly, the skills and mindsets I developed to be an effective learner and problem solver. Through years in math at Byram Hills, I’m sure that the candidates today can say the same thing in a few years.”
 
Jonathan Manowitz, the co-secretary, said what stood out for him was how “inclusive and supportive” he found the Byram Hills math community to be.

“Even though we are assessed individually, the Byram Hills math experience is still defined by extraordinary collaboration and mutual support,” he said. “I've found that students work to succeed together alongside their peers rather than against their peers. This sense of community makes our math classes much more than just lessons. They’re collaborative experiences in which we are all encouraged to explore, ask questions and support each other. It’s this environment that has truly defined my experience with math at Byram Hills.”

Joseph Palackal, co-secretary, said while his math knowledge had expanded exponentially at Byram Hills, “in all honesty, my greatest takeaway from my four years here was not the math itself, it was the other skills that came with it.”

“As the concepts became increasingly challenging, and classes started to move at a quicker pace, the most effective way for me to learn was in collaboration with friends and classmates,” he said. 

Each inductee was recognized and received a blue and gold Mu Alpha Theta tassel.

The new members are: Sage Auster, Beatrice Bachmann, Spencer Berkowitz, Zachary Berman, Daphne Bernstein, Anika Bobra, Laila Byles, Sophie Cai, Sienna Cavada, Max Charney, Lauren Chase, Sloane Dany, Noah Drazner, Ari Dreilinger, Kimberly Eagle, Keira Eckhardt, Dahlia Flores, Alexandros Gaillas, Alexandra Gann, Jillian Gendal, Alexa Goldberg, Joshua Goldman, Ariana Reese Guido, Zoe Harris, Miguel Heredia, Anna Higgins, Mason Jacob, Chase Keller, Tyler Kravitz, Sophia Kulik, Inaara Lalani, Sebastian Lashmet, Lincoln Lentini, Alexander Lewis, Selina Li, Ethan Lipton, Molly Malter, Claire Mauney, Evan McCauley, Kayleigh McLaughlin, Maya Molloy, Maxwell Moy, Eve Nepo, Angelina Nie, Mykola Nychka, Amanda Olego, Maeve Padley, Addison Rappaport, Harli Rappaport, Abigael Rondeau, Ella Saltstein, Ava Schoenhaut, Avni Sundaram, Jordan Tolchin, Allison Tsay and Logan Verma.

Mu Alpha Theta, founded in 1957, is the national high school and two-year college mathematics honor society. The Byram Hills chapter is among about 1,800 across the United States and abroad.

CLICK HERE to view the full ceremony.