The Tri-Valley Central School District proudly announces the top academic honorees for the Class of 2026. Savannah Chaboty has been named valedictorian, and Emma Richardson and Sophia Richardson have been named co-salutatorians.
Savannah Chaboty – Valedictorian
Weighted GPA: 99.2
Savannah has maintained the highest academic ranking in her class since ninth grade while balancing athletics and extracurricular commitments. She attributes her success to a disciplined approach, completing most of her coursework during school hours to manage her responsibilities effectively. Physics presented her greatest academic challenge, but with determination and the support of her mother and teachers, she persevered. Her favorite high school memories include time spent in Mr. McCauliff’s chemistry class, where hands-on learning and collaborative problem-solving left a lasting impact. She plans to attend Penn State Scranton in the fall to major in marketing.
Emma Richardson – Salutatorian
Weighted GPA: 99.1
Emma has excelled academically while actively participating in athletics and the performing arts, including four years in track, cross country, and theater. She credits long-term goal setting, prioritizing restorative sleep, and support from her family and coaches for maintaining her academic and extracurricular performance. Emma found foundational mathematics, including geometry and Algebra II, to be her most challenging subjects, though she thrived in higher-level courses like calculus. Her favorite memories include starring in the school’s production of Newsies and attending Mr. McCauliff’s science classes, where humor and hands-on learning helped make complex topics more accessible. She plans to attend the University of Maryland to pursue a double major in physics and aerospace engineering, with aspirations to earn a doctorate in astrophysics and work for NASA.
Sophia Richardson – Salutatorian
Weighted GPA: 99.1
Sophia focused on academic excellence beginning in her sophomore year while maintaining elite performance in cross country and track. She excelled in analytical subjects such as math and history, while Spanish required additional effort and focus. Sophia credits her family, coaches, and supportive teachers for helping her balance athletics with academics. Her favorite memories include competing at the state level in athletics, winning sectional titles with her teammates, and drawing support from her seventh-grade cohort, which helped guide her social and academic growth. She plans to attend Providence College to continue competing on the track team while pursuing a degree in engineering, with potential career paths in chemical engineering or federal law enforcement.
The students offered advice to younger students: prioritize mental health, stay organized, and remember that a single grade does not define your future.
Tri-Valley Central School District congratulates Savannah, Emma, and Sophia on their outstanding achievements and thanks the families, teachers, and mentors who supported them throughout their high school careers.