Meet your local top students

PATCHOGUE-MEDFORD

Patchogue-Medford High School named their 2026 valedictorian, salutatorian, and essayist as Taylor Tor, Michael Russell, and Chloe Lin, respectively.

“These honors represent far more than grades or rankings,” said Dr. Randy Rusielewicz, principal of Patchogue-Medford High School. “They reflect character, resilience, and a genuine passion for learning. Each of these students has left a lasting mark on our school, and we are confident they will continue to achieve greatness in the years that lie ahead.”

Valedictorian Tor’s academic achievements and 104.65 weighted GPA reflect years of dedication, perseverance, and intellectual curiosity. Following graduation, she will attend the University of Connecticut and plans to major in physiology and neurobiology on a pre-med track.

“Taylor’s commitment to excellence and consistent leadership in the classroom sets a powerful example for peers and future students alike,” said Dr. Rusielewicz.

As salutatorian, Russell achieved a 103.87 weighted GPA. He is known for his thoughtful approach to learning and determination. Upon graduating, he will attend the University of South Carolina, with plans to major in biochemistry on a pre-med track.

Class essayist Lin possesses a 103.50 weighted GPA. Her strong academic performance, diligence, and responsibility have distinguished her throughout her high school career. After graduation, Lin will attend the Rochester Institute of Technology to major in engineering.

SOUTH COUNTRY SCHOOLS

Bellport High School’s top three for 2026 were named as Gabriel Andre, valedictorian; Samantha Panasuk, salutatorian; and Joselyn Jara Lopez, the class essayist.

Bellport High School will be holding their graduation ceremony on June 26 at 6 p.m. at the high school.

The top 10 following the top three include seniors Orion Beadle, Alana Cornacchiulo, Meaghan DeLillo, Brenden Fitzgerald, Ethan Hillard, Sara Repper and Noel Rivera.

Andre made history as Bellport High School’s first National Merit Commended Scholar. He is also an AP Scholar with Distinction and earned a prestigious AP Capstone Diploma. He serves as president of his school’s Science Honor Society, vice president of the Math Honor Society and vice president of the Math Club, a position in which he led his team at the Hofstra Long Island Math Fair and earned himself a silver medal. He also serves as captain of Quiz Bowl, secretary of the French Club, and is a member of the National Honor Society, National English Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society.

In addition to his academic achievements, Andre is an accomplished musician. He holds an All-County title for cello and has performed in festivals held by the Long Island String Festival Association, New York State Council of Administrators of Music Education and New York State School Music Association. He also plays cello in his school’s chamber and pit orchestras and keyboard with the jazz band.

Outside of school, Andre has participated in Brookhaven National Laboratory’s STEM Prep and Bridge to Research summer programs.

He plans to attend college in the fall to study biomedical engineering.

Equally impressive is Samantha Panasuk, an AP Scholar with Distinction who has earned an AP Capstone Diploma. She is a member of her school’s Math, English, Science, Spanish and National honor societies, as well as Tri-M Music Honor Society. Additionally, she is a writer for her school’s literary magazine, Fathom, and participated in the WISE program and girls track. She is also an accomplished flutist who performs with her school’s flute choir and has participated in NYSSMA and SCMEA festivals on flute and piano. 

She plans to attend Stony Brook University in the fall to study music.

Jara Lopez is an AP Scholar with Distinction and will graduate with an impressive AP Capstone Diploma. She serves as vice president of her school’s Science Honor Society and is a member of the National, Math, English and Italian honor societies, as well as the Italian Club.

She plans to study nursing in the fall.