Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School has named the valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2026. Boasting a GPA of 104.60, Krzysztof Krasnowski has been named this year’s valedictorian. Darein Reyes is this year’s salutatorian with an impressive 103.92 GPA.

Krasnowski’s time at Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School can be summed up through community service and leadership. He has spent countless hours tutoring and volunteering at community events, alongside serving as a Key Club cabinet member since ninth grade and vice president of hospitality for DECA. Krasnowski developed an emphasis on leadership through these positions and completed an Outward Bound Sailing and Leadership program. He has also taken 12 Advanced Placement classes and is a member of the National Honor Society, Science Honor Society, Global Ambassadors and Science Olympiad team. A member of the tennis and cross-country teams, Krasnowski plans to go to medical school and become a cardiovascular perfusionist.

Science research is a top priority for salutatorian Reyes, who assisted in cofounding the first chapter of the Science National Honor Society, cofounding the school’s soon-to-be Scientific Newsletter, and working as a tutor for AP Seminar, AP Research, and Science Research students. An AP Scholar with Distinction and member of the National Honor Society, Reyes will also earn an AP Capstone Diploma. He has been named a finalist in the JYEM and EcoTech competitions. He plans to major in biology on a pre-med track, specializing in dermatological work.
“I could not be prouder of our valedictorian and salutatorian,” said Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School Principal Joseph Agosta. “Their dedication, perseverance, and genuine love of learning represent the very best of Copiague. Both have set an example not only through their academic excellence but through their kindness, leadership, and the positive spirit they bring to our school each day. They remind us all what’s possible when passion meets purpose.”