Meet the Class of 2026 Top Scholars

Central Valley Academy announced the Class of 2026 top scholars on Wednesday, May 20 during a school-wide assembly. Principal Dick Keeler praised the students for their hard work and achievement.

"What makes this recognition meaningful is not simply the grades themselves," he said. "Academic success represents something larger. It reflects consistency. It reflects accountability. It reflects the ability to set a goal and continue working toward it, even when motivation fades and challenges arise."

"I hope you see what can happen when someone takes school seriously, believes in their future, and commits themselves to growth over time. Every student in this room is capable of improvement, achievement, and success in some form. The path may look different for each of you, but the opportunity is there."

Honored were those students who earned Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, Summa Cum Laude, and the valedictorian and salutatorian.

Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Valedictorian Zachary Archer

Zachary Archer is the valedictorian of the Class of 2026. He is the son of George and JoAnne Archer.

Zach stands out for his earnestness, determination, and serious pursuit of academic excellence, He consistently demonstrates strong critical thinking ability, thoughtful vision for his future, and genuine enthusiasm for knowledge. These qualities distinguish him among his peers and give every indication that he is destined for continued success in the years ahead.

Zachary’s academic accomplishments are truly outstanding. Throughout his time at Central Valley Academy, he consistently challenged himself by taking the most rigorous courses available, while earning remarkable grades that reflect both his work ethic and commitment to learning. His maturity, integrity, and sense of responsibility have allowed him to excel not only academically, but also in every opportunity he has pursued.

Beyond academics, Zach was a member of National Honor Society, Newspaper and Journalism Club, and Varsity Bowling., balancing these commitments while continuing to achieve at the highest academic level.

This fall, Zachary will attend Herkimer College, where he plans to major in Competitive Analytics before transferring to a four-year state university to continue his education.

Salutatorian Molly Brien

Molly Brien is the Class of 2026 salutatorian. She is the daughter of Michael and Erin Brien of Ilion.

What truly sets Molly apart is her character. She leads by example through her kindness, empathy, and willingness to help others. She motivates those around her, gives generously of her time and talents, and strives to make a positive difference wherever she goes. Her leadership and compassion have left a lasting mark on CVA, and she has become a role model for both her peers and younger students. Molly approaches every challenge with determination, preparation, and a genuine desire to learn. She consistently challenged herself academically by taking a rigorous course load while maintaining outstanding achievement.

Beyond the classroom, she was a dedicated member of numerous organizations and activities, including National Honor Society, Ecology Club, Athletic Leadership Council, Chamber Choir, Drama Club, Science Club, and Varsity Soccer. She has also been deeply involved in the music program through chorus, orchestra, and theatre, sharing her many talents with our school community. 

Molly will attend SUNY Oneonta this fall, where she plans to major in Chemistry on a Pre-Occupational Therapy Track.

Summa Cum Laude (95-100)

(Not in photo order) Zachary Archer, Gracie Bennett, Molly Brien, Lucas Casale, Sophia Colone, Jack Getman, Marissa Palumbo, Miley Rando, Hailey Richards, Makayla Rodgers, Madelyn Spatto, Meredith Vandawalker, Olivia Watkins

Magna Cum Laude (90-94.99)

(Not in photo order) Cal Beckwith, Jeffrey Chase III, Anthony Colone, Connor Darrow, Kathleen Dean, Matthew Dempsey, Gianna Durante, Sandra Ferlo, Kamryn Frank, Miles Hoyt, Calvin Jacquays, Reese Judd, Lily Kennedy, Coleigh Lape, Luke Lawton, Rain Magog, Will Schrader, Jayda Seelbach, Racquel Simmons, Fiona Stewart, Brody Vogel, Emma Watkins, Isabella Williams

Cum Laude (85-89.99)

(Not in photo order) Abigail Becker, Kaiden Brunet, Zackery Bushardt, Ava Crim, Anna Donahue, Emilio Elthorp, James Graziano, Laila Groomes, Maya Holovitz, Anna Johannssen, Dahlia Kapaw, Jakob Keeler, Riley Knopka, Allyson Lamica, Zachary Looman, Azaira McDonald, Tyler Monahan, Marlon Morales, Luca Olds, Matthew Osley, Christina Rivera, Charlize Roepnack, Trenton Talarico, Mikaela Turner, Jomar Vega, Alivia Verenich, Blake Yardley, Mason Zink