East Rockaway chooses its salutatorian

A scholar, a musician, and an active community member, Courtney Jackson has embraced the high school experience, inside and out of the classroom.

Courtney led the charge in this small high school to begin a science research program in 2012. Her interest in exploring research in circadian rhythms led to exciting opportunities including attending a National Youth Leadership Forum on Medicine in Massachusetts and working in research during the summer months at the Young Laboratory at Rockefeller University.

With an interest in exploring other cultures, as well as her own, Courtney spent time in Central America in the summer of 2013 and in the Middle East in 2014.

Courtney has dedicated her time and support to her peers and surrounding community. In school she has served as a leader and officer in both SADD and student council, she has modeled positive behaviors for younger students in the district as a Peer AIDS Educator, and she has been an active member of our Key Club each of the last four years.

She was one of the first students to serve as a member of the school’s Site Based Management team with faculty members, community representatives and administrators. Courtney is a leader who has facilitated much positive change in the high school building because of her ability to assess situations and provide proactive and positive solutions. The recipient of numerous awards and accolades, Courtney has been acknowledged for excellence in academics as well as for the significant contributions she has made to her school and community.

Courtney is a triplet, sister to Alexis Rose and Brandon, and the daughter of Anthony and Lori Jackson. She will be a member of the prestigious Scholars Program at Binghamton University in the fall.“Though I appreciate the support system my siblings have given me over the past 18 years. I am excited to take the first steps on my own path this coming fall,” Courtney said.

Her AP English Language teacher, TJ DiPietro, added that “Courtney will blossom in a setting of rigor and challenge. The cliché holds- there is nothing this young lady cannot accomplish. She is the rare individual you know can and will change the world.”