2026 Student and Teacher Recognition

Shaya Gerber

Shaya is a senior at Academy of the Holy Names, and an outstanding scholar, leader, and athlete. She is respected by her classmates, younger students, faculty and staff because she exemplifies humility, compassion, dedication and perseverance. Shaya is a gifted writer and an avid reader, who brings an analytical eye and creative mind to every subject she studies. Her passion for science is remarkable. This past year, she completed an internship at Albany Medical College, conducting research in a lab setting. Shaya is athletic and disciplined, holding a black belt in karate and has competed on our cross country, track, soccer, basketball, and softball teams. She is a leader in every sense of the word. She served as co-captain of our varsity soccer team. She currently serves as Senior Class Secretary and President of our National Honor Society Chapter. Shaya participates in programs such as Mock Trial, Masterminds, Junior Ladies of Charity, and Youth Ministry. She has attended leadership experiences including HOBY, the Journey Retreat, the Colonial Council Sportsmanship Summit, and NCYC. Her character, compassion, and ability to lead with empathy earned her the New York State Comptroller Award and the enduring admiration of both her peers and faculty. In August, Shaya will attend Hamilton College where she plans to major in Biochemistry.

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Deborah Baxter

Throughout my high school career, Ms. Baxter has been an excellent resource. She was always available to help plan my high school courses, discuss college admissions, and just talk about life. In the classroom, she knew my limits well enough to push me in ways I haven't been pushed before, yet she never asked for too much. Learning AP Bio from her not only taught me the demand of a college level course, but the endless possibility when a teacher cares about their students.

Hanna Peters

Hanna Peters is a dedicated scholar, athlete, and performer, Hanna has distinguished herself through exceptional academic achievement, dynamic leadership, and a heartfelt commitment to her school and community. Hanna plans to attend SUNY Geneseo, where she intends to major in English. She was recognized as the Most Distinguished Athlete for Varsity Volleyball. Among her other honors are the NYSCD SWE Merit Award, the Student Sage Award, the George H. Ball Community Achievement Award, and the UAlbany Capital District Leadership Award. Hanna is also a proud member of the National Honor Society. Hanna is an active and versatile leader in her school community. She serves as Co-President of Best Buddies and Treasurer of Key Club, and is a member of the National Honor Society, Youth As Leaders, Leading Tones, and the Youth Belonging Leadership Team. She has performed in Musical Theatre, playing Jack’s Mom in Into the Woods, and has been a dedicated Varsity Volleyball player. Her volunteer work includes the Joshua Project, the local food pantry, multiple trash clean-ups, tutoring, and serving as a counselor at her local church camp. Reflecting on her time at Schoharie High School, Hanna shares: “Being at Schoharie High School has allowed me to grow lasting connections with students and staff. The classes, clubs, and sports I have been a part of have allowed me to grow intellectually and personally in ways I will carry with me for the rest of my life.” Hanna is the daughter of Tanja Peters and Dirk Peters, and granddaughter of Marga Pohl and resides in Schoharie, NY. She is the twin sister of Ethan Peters.

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Dr. John Christopher Styles

Dr. Styles is the type of teacher who does not let a student walk into his classroom without them being seen. He is one of the few teachers who takes notice when one of their students is having a bad day and does whatever he can to try to fix it. Dr. Styles has been my teacher for three years now across classes such as physics, chemistry and logic. He encourages his students to be their best versions of themselves and he never fails to make us laugh everyday. Dr. Styles supports his students not just in the classroom but outside of it as well as he tries to get to multiple sporting events per year to cheer his students on. I am extremely grateful that he has been my teacher as he has made me more confident in myself and my future. I will miss seeing him drinking his daily Diet Pepsi after I graduate.

Sarah Martino

Sarah Martino is a wonderful young adult and a top notch student.  She has excelled throughout her high school career across disciplines although she has an aptitude and interest in STEM.  Sarah has taken a rich and rigorous course load throughout, from honors courses and 6 Advanced Placement courses to Music Performance each year.  She has received numerous recognitions and awards based on all of her achievements and contributions and is a member of the National Honor Society.  Sarah is a talented musician, playing the drums in our Guitar Club as well as in her own band.  She will graduate with a New York State Advanced Regents Diploma, with Honors, mastery in math and science, and Maple Hill's College Preparatory Diploma.  Sarah will attend Clarkson University in the Fall where she will study Environmental Engineering.  We wish her all the best!

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Janice Balogh

Mrs. Balogh is an amazing teacher and such a supportive person.  I have been lucky to experience her organized and thoughtful teaching for three years.  She is always ready to answer questions and listen when you  need guidance.  Her love for math and the confidence she gives to her students has influenced my love for learning.