Big honor for Valley Stream's eighth grade grads

Katrina Bautista - Holy Name of Mary School

After attending Holy Name of Mary School for nine years, Katrina Bautista has earned valedictorian of her eighth grade class. “I am shocked,” she said.

Katrina recognizes the prestige with this accomplishment. “Yes, it is a big honor,” she said. “It is a lot of pressure but I am very proud to make it.” She is excited about her graduation speech, and will take pride in it.

She has been a student at Holy Name of Mary School since kindergarten. With an avid interest in singing, Katrina is a member of the student choir. “I like to sing and dance,” she said. She has been a canter for her choir, in which she uses religious cant to touch audiences.

Though she has no favorite subject in school, she “enjoys trying her best.”

Katrina cherishes the school for all of the support. “Holy Name of Mary is very patient with us,” she said. “They make sure to encourage us.” Katrina also thanks her mother for tremendous support.

When talking about the school, she smiles. “My best memory has been this last year because it means a lot to me,” she said. “I miss everyone. They mean so much to me...friends, teachers, and the church.”

Katrina plans to attend Holy Trinity Diocesan High School in Hicksville this fall. She looks forward to continuing to explore her dreams of being on stage. She has auditioned and plans to participate in the Theatre Arts program there.

Ethan Robertson - Blessed Sacrament School

If you were to ask Ethan Robertson about being Blessed Sacrament School’s valedictorian, he would say he was surprised. After five years of hard work, he is graduating at the top of his class.

“I am excited about being valedictorian,” Ethan said. One of Ethan’s goals was to earn that top spot. Now, his academic efforts have finally been rewarded, which Ethan is very happy about.

He attends the school with his brother. In the race to valedictorian, Ethan’s grades rival those of his brother, and his teacher described them as “neck and neck.” Ethan tries especially hard to make good grades in math, which is his favorite subject. “It is easy to me,” he said.

Ethan also has been in the band since he arrived at the school. He plays the trumpet and wants to continue to play it in the future. Outside of the classroom, Ethan enjoys playing video games.

At home, Ethan said he receives a lot of encouragement from his family. “My parents have been supportive,” he said.

With their support, Ethan will be attending St. Francis Preparatory School in Fresh Meadows this fall. He has also received an academic scholarship. Though he is looking forward to it, Ethan will carry with him all the wonderful things he has learned at Blessed Sacrament.

“I will miss all my friends and teachers,” Ethan said. “This school prepares you for high school and you [make] a lot of good friends.”