Byram Hills honors National Merit achievers, Cum Laude inductees and state champion tennis team

The Byram Hills Central School District Board of Education on Dec. 10 recognized academic and athletic achievements across the district, honoring 21 Byram Hills High School seniors inducted into the Cum Laude Society and celebrating National Merit commended students and semifinalists.

Dr. Lamia (Superintendent) introduced the recognitions and praised the students and faculty. She told the audience that 21 seniors were honored for academic achievement and induction into the Cum Laude Society, an honor society that recognizes the top 10% of the senior class. "This year, we had 21 Byram Hills High School seniors honored for academic achievement and inducted in the Cum Laude Society," Dr. Lamia said.

During the Cum Laude remarks, Lisa Pellegrino, the mathematics chairperson, discussed classroom culture and learning from mistakes: "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 celebrates mistakes as learning opportunities," Pellegrino said.

The board also recognized National Merit commended students and semifinalists, noting the national competitiveness of the program. The superintendent read a list of recipients and acknowledged National Merit semifinalists and commended students; winners and finalist announcements were noted as occurring at later dates per National Merit procedures.

The meeting also included recognition of the district—s girls tennis team for winning multiple state championships. Rob Costagna and head coach Jessica Kaplan joined the board to acknowledge the team—s achievements and to thank staff and community members who supported athletics. Costagna thanked coaches and athletic staff for their work and highlighted community support.

Ending: The board invited students and families to take photos after the recognitions and thanked families for attending.