In celebration of outstanding academic achievement and the educators who helped make that success possible, Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School hosted its annual top 20 luncheon for the Class of 2026 on Jan. 23. The event recognized the top 20 students in the graduating class, who each had the opportunity to invite a teacher who had a positive influence on their academic journey in the Copiague School District. The luncheon brought together students, families, teachers, Board of Education members, Senator Monica Martinez, Regent Thomas-Williams and central office administrators for a meaningful afternoon of recognition and gratitude. 

Walter G. O’Connell Copiague High School Principal Joseph Agosta welcomed attendees and reflected on the significance of the event. “Each of you is a beacon of hope for the future, and I have no doubt that your input will impact and extend far beyond these hallways,” he said.  

During the ceremony, Mr. Agosta invited each honoree to the stage to be recognized for their academic excellence. Students also shared a few words about the teacher who inspired and supported them throughout their educational journey, creating heartfelt moments of appreciation and reflection. 

The district extends its congratulations to the top 20 students, in order beginning with No. 20: Raffy De Lamar Sime, Christian Cruz, Heily Fernandez, Rocsi Ramirez, Kaia Mabli, Catherine Yanase, Anne Marie De Oleo Mayorga, Jimena Machuca Arriola, Jocelyne Carranza Orellana, Carlos Bravo Hernandez, Rosina Wickham, Aneisa Nicholas, Damaris Bonilla, Olivia Tyszko, Bielka Perez, Ronan Higgins, Enshan Ramkissoon, Daniel Zheng, Darein Reyes and Krzysztof Krasnowski.  

The teacher and staff honorees, in order of the top 20 students whom they were selected by, included: Sylvia Walsh, James Travis, Melisa Dias, Crystal Gray, Anastasia Kourtis, Thomas Korn, Michelle Penyy, Jessica Jablonski, Alline Stanton, Matthew Miles, Kaitlyn Thompson, Colleen Gurtner, Jules Goeke, Kerri Hall, Taylor Cardone, Rosa Benaburger, John Danaher, Jason Taibi, Tracy Wenzler and Nicholas Lorenzen.