Minisink Valley High School has been named a “School of Excellence” by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association (NYSPHSAA) for the 2023-24 school year.
To earn the School of Excellence Award, at least 75% of a school’s varsity teams must qualify and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award. Of the 27 varsity teams, 21 were recognized as “Team Scholar” recipients, or 78% of the high school’s varsity teams
“This distinction recognizes the commitment of our student athletes to both their academic and athletic success, and we are beyond thrilled,” said Athletic Director Tim Bult. “I want to also acknowledge our coaches and our students’ parents and guardians, because they understand the important balance athletics has with academics. They also offer incalculable encouragement and guidance which supports the success of our student athletes.”
NYSPHSAA’s School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards are intended is to unite athletic departments in challenging their teams to achieve a statewide academic honor. This year, 226 schools earned the School of Excellence Award, an increase over the previous year.
“The efforts made by student-athletes in the classroom are paramount to their success in the athletic arena, and beyond their high school days,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA executive director, said in a statement. “We are proud of those who put in the work as ‘student’ and ‘athlete,’ as well as the growth in both of School of Excellence and Distinction recognition.”
The high school will receive its award during the local athletic director workshop this fall. To be eligible to receive these prestigious awards, schools must submit an application following the Spring Scholar-Athlete submission each school year.