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Superintendent Dr. Larry Washington and Principal Brian Connolly would like to introduce the Washingtonville High School class of 2024 Valedictorian and Salutatorian.
Gavin Chaing has been named the valedictorian of Washingtonville High School and is a dedicated community activist with a passion for environmental conservation. Gavin became the Secretary for the Community Service Club and discovered the Blooming Grove Conservation Advisory Commission. After frequently attending meetings, Gavin became the youngest member in the organization’s history at only 16. Gavin played a pivotal role in spearheading the development of the Naomi Sewell Richardson Park, a neglected property in Washingtonville since 2017. He catalyzed this transformation by founding the Sewell Park Project Club, which aimed to convert the park into a vibrant pollinator pathway and community hub.
Gavin’s experiences with the passionate conservationists on the board have motivated him to pursue a career in the renewable energy sector and pave the way for a green future. To do this, Gavin will be attending Cornell University’s College of Engineering, majoring in Chemical Engineering.
Kiera Calovic has been named the salutatorian of Washingtonville High School and will be attending SUNY Geneseo this fall. She will be majoring in accounting with plans of pursuing a career in forensic accounting in the future. During her time at WHS, Kiera has challenged herself by taking multiple AP and college-level courses. She has received Academic Achievement Awards in various Spanish, Math, Science, and English courses. Kiera is currently the President of the Student Coalition and the Treasurer of the National English Honor Society and Wizards Against Cancer club. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the National Science, Art, and Math Honor Societies as well. Additionally, she has had the privilege of working with the Aspire students in the Special Olympics and Best Buddies programs. Aside from extracurriculars, Kiera has been actively involved in sports like varsity soccer, golf, and flag football.
“Gavin and Kiera are both very talented and dedicated students,” said Principal Brian Connolly. “Their success is largely due to their work ethic and determination to succeed. There is a quote from Michael Jordan that I use often when it comes to earning awards or accolades. He said, “Champions do not become champions when they win an event or award, but rather in the hours, weeks, months, and years they spend preparing for it. The virtuous performance (award) itself is merely a demonstration of their championship character."
