The City School District of New Rochelle has named Cory Seelenfreund as Valedictorian and Scarlett Hartzman as Salutatorian for the Class of 2026. Both students are incredibly gifted academically, with a wide array of interests ranging from science research and orchestra to crocheting and playing pickleball. Seelenfreund’s weighted grade point average is 106.49, and Hartzman is just one point away with 105.94.
Seelenfreund is an award-winning science researcher with a first-place international award in mathematics and the recipient of the prestigious Peggy Scripps Award for Science Communication. He is also President of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, and a participant in the top ensemble in New York State for clarinet performance.
As president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, Seelenfreund raised the group’s profile by arranging performances in various locations around the high school and organizing the first-ever Tri-M Concert. He also volunteers with Songcatchers, a not-for-profit group that provides musical instruction to children who cannot access traditional lessons.
“The past three years have challenged me in so many ways, but they’ve also pushed me to grow,” said Seelenfreund. “Being named valedictorian is an incredible honor, and I’m so grateful for the support of my teachers, friends, and family. I’m excited to see what the future holds, and I wish the entire Class of 2026 all the best as we take our next steps forward together.”
Like Seelenfreund, Hartzman has devoted much of her time to science research and musical pursuits, but she, too, has made time for fun. Hartzman founded and is president of the Crochet Club, also founded the Robotics Club, and participates in the Chess Club.
She has also received numerous awards for her science research. These include being the Winner of the Provost New American University ISEF Scholarship and Grand Prize Winner at the Westchester Science and Engineering Fair (WESEF) 2025.
"I'd like to thank all my wonderful teachers from my 14 years in New Rochelle public schools. It's an incredible honor to be named Salutatorian of New Rochelle High School. I'm excited to continue my journey and inspire others as my teachers and peers have inspired me," said Hartzman.