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Cinnaminson honors valedictorian, salutatorian and spring athletics; dozens of students recognized
Summary
The board celebrated academic and athletic achievements: valedictorian Olivia Gola and salutatorian James Kazowski were honored, elementary poster contest winners and 'pirate leaders' were named, and athletic director Brian Wilkinson highlighted record-setting performances and state qualifiers across spring sports.
Board members opened the meeting with extended student recognition, highlighting academic honors, arts awards and a wide array of athletic accomplishments across the district.
Top academic honors: The board recognized Olivia Gola as valedictorian of the Class of 2026 and James Kazowski as salutatorian. The presentation noted Gola’s reported weighted cumulative GPA of 104.28 and a rigorous course load including honors and AP classes; Kazowski’s cumulative GPA was reported as 103.17. Both students were praised for academic leadership and extracurricular involvement and their college plans were mentioned.
Elementary and middle-school recognition: Principals from New Albany and Rush schools announced winners of a fire‑prevention poster contest (a subset advanced to the state level) and named student 'pirate leaders' chosen for character and leadership. Rush School also highlighted a fifth‑grade STEAM project described as a plant-based 'green lantern' intended to reduce reliance on artificial air fresheners and support student wellbeing.
Athletics and records: Athletic director Brian Wilkinson reviewed an extensive list of team and individual achievements: the golf team’s division and county titles, a school-first Carl Arena Tournament win and a school-record 62 at the BCSL Open; varsity softball records (season runs, stolen bases, career triples, career RBIs); multiple state qualifiers in track and other sports; and a historic 46 assists by junior Tegan Fidella on the girls lacrosse team. Several individual state qualifying performances were named and athletes were invited to come forward for recognition.
Board and next steps: The board paused briefly for photographs and encouraged community members to view the referendum renderings and student artwork on display after the recognition program.
