Locust Valley High School seniors Riley Haas and Kelsey Neves have been named the Class of 2024 valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively. Haas and Neves were recognized by Principal Patrick DiClemente at the district’s board of education meeting on Oct. 18.
Haas achieved a weighted average of 109.28 through her academic journey, including 13 IB courses, three Advanced Placement courses, band, guitar and Spanish classes. She also volunteers to play with life skills students’ Unified Basketball team. She was also recognized as an AP Scholar earlier this school year. English teacher Dr. Coleen Comerford described Haas as “attentive, patient, positive and a thoughtful listener with a strong sense of responsibility. Comerford also said that “Beyond her stellar academics, she is remarkable for her kindness and compassion.”
Haas is also extremely active in extracurricular clubs and sports, participating in Technology Club, Student Government, stage crew, field hockey, softball, volleyball teams. Additionally, she is an avid sailor and volunteers her time at the Grenville Boys and Girls Club in Locust Valley. Haas is also a talented All-County flute musician and accomplished girl scout pursuing a seal of biliteracy.
“I’ve always pushed myself to have high grades,” Haas said. “Last year I noticed that I had a shot at it (valedictorian) and I worked hard to get there.”
After she graduates, Haas hopes to study marine engineering. She discovered her love for that subject while away at summer camp during middle school where she built a small boat.
Neves has earned a weighted average of 107.4 through her time in Locust Valley, completing seven IB courses, three AP courses, French, physics, forensics, international relations, Model U.N club., band, journalism, computer art and design, ceramics, sculpture and career exploratory. She has also been recognized as a National Merit Commended Student, a National PTA Reflections Literary Program winner and has participated in the All-County music festival. She is also pursuing a seal of biliteracy.
After graduating, Neves hopes to continue her passion for creative writing in college. She has been inspired by English teachers Dr. Cumerford and Anthony Vitale.
“I knew I enjoyed writing, but I’ve gotten to hone in on that skill,” Neves said. “I was kind of lost as to what direction I wanted to go in the future, but having those outlets helped me figure out what I want to do with my life.”
Neves’ extracurriculars include participating in the art, garden, culinary, fashion and Gender-Sexualities Alliance clubs. She is also the editor of school newspaper “Perspective,” the art and literature magazine and the mental health awareness club’s newsletter.
“Neves’ diligent efforts, passion for success and overall attention to pursuing all the opportunities to achieve at Locust Valley High School have resulted in her status as the salutatorian,” DiClemente said.