Before graduation, we caught up with the Class of 2026 valedictorian, Charlotte Webster, to learn a little bit more about her and see what advice she has for up-and-coming students in East Rockaway.

What years did you attend East Rockaway schools?

I have been a student in the East Rockaway School District since kindergarten. I went to Centre Avenue and am now graduating from East Rockaway High School.

What is your favorite elementary school memory?

My favorite elementary school memories are from Field Day. Field Day was always so much fun and a fantastic way to close out the school year and introduce the summer. Many of my memories from Field Day are of my friends and me running through obstacle courses, competing in relay races, or sharing refreshing watermelon on a hot June morning.

What is your favorite high school memory?

My favorite high school memory is from the Music Department’s competition trip to Busch Gardens, Virginia. This trip was full of laughs and special memories for me and my friends.

What was your favorite high school class?

My favorite high school class was AP Environmental Science. As someone who loves science, this class was so much fun and so interesting.

Who/what motivated you the most in school?

Throughout school, my parents helped me stay motivated. Their hard work and support inspired me to work just as hard toward reaching my goals and building my future. 

What faculty member do you think influenced you the most?

Mr. Ceglio has been the faculty member who has influenced me the most. Not only is he a great teacher, but he is also a mentor, a friend, and a helping hand. I know that I can trust him, and he has taught me lessons that I can apply both inside and outside of the classroom.

What classes or extracurriculars benefited you the most? Why?

Taking 11 AP classes and being in a leadership position for just about every club I participate in has given me the opportunity to navigate challenges and work with my peers. These resources have benefitted me by preparing me for my future and showing me what it means to be a leader in and out of an academic environment.

What advice would you give to incoming freshmen about their high school years?

For incoming freshmen, it is very important that you find a way to get involved. Extracurricular activities are so important because they not only shape who you are but also foster friendships you might not anticipate, teach you life lessons, and prepare you for life after high school. 

Do you have any advice for students about to start the college application process?

The most important thing that I learned from the college application process was to start early. I had over 30 supplemental essays that I needed to complete before January, and I knew that it would be impossible to complete them all at the last minute. Common App opens in August, and that was when I began my applications, which helped me meet my deadlines both early and prepared. 

Any tips for students on staying on top of their course load?

A crucial way to stay on top of your course load is time management. As someone who navigated high school while participating in many extracurricular activities, sports, and a job my senior year, I learned that you must budget your time wisely to complete your work efficiently. If something was due at the end of the week, I wouldn't wait until the night before to get started. This way, I could complete assignments and still participate in other activities without drowning in schoolwork.

What is your proudest high school accomplishment?

My proudest high school accomplishment is being named valedictorian. I spent countless hours studying and balancing many responsibilities, so I feel as though my hard work has paid off significantly. 

Where do you hope to see yourself in 20 years?

In 20 years, I hope to work in biology. I am not sure if I want to enter the medical field, but I would like to use science to help others. 

Thanks, Charlotte! Best of luck at the University of North Carolina!

Stay tuned for our chat with salutatorian Victoria Schaefer…