Class of 2026 Valedictorian and Salutatorian Named

NEW ROCHELLE – 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-ranging array of interests 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 105.49.

Seelenfreund is an award-winning science researcher and participant in the high school’s prestigious Science Research Program. He has received a first-place international award in mathematics and 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.

After high school, Seelenfreund plans to pursue degrees in mathematics and music, aspiring for a career in math research.

“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.