The New York State Public High School Athletic Association, Inc. (NYSPHSAA) announced its 2018-19 Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction and School of Excellence Award winners. This year marks the third year in a row that Newark Valley has received the school of excellence designation.  Schools can earn School of Distinction status by having 100% of its varsity teams qualify for and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award during their respective sports seasons. To earn the School of Excellence Award, 75% of a school’s varsity teams must qualify and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award.

The purpose of the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards are to unite varsity coaches in challenging their teams to achieve a statewide honor. This year, 35 schools earned the School of Distinction Award and 135 schools earned the School of Excellence Award. An additional 5 schools received the School of Distinction Award and 19 more received the School of Excellence Award compared to 2017-18 school year.

This year’s figures represent the highest number of NYSPHSAA member schools being recognized for their academic achievements.

“To see the numbers of schools honored increase again is a true testament the kind of student-athletes were have here in New York State,” said Dr. Robert Zayas NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “We continue to be proud of this program that highlights and celebrates schools that value the importance of academics, as well as athletics.”