Top-ranking seniors reflect on success at Webutuck High

Giana Kall, Valedictorian, Class of 2026

Academic achievement earned Giana Kall designation as Valedictorian of the Class of 2026. Her contributions to student life at Webutuck High School and dedication to a variety of activities are a roadmap for those students who will follow her.

Giana is one of three student representatives who serve on Webutuck’s Board of Education. She is also a member of the Culture and Climate Club, an organization that seeks to enhance the Webutuck school experience for all students.

Serving as President of the school’s chapter of the National Honor Society and the Student Council, Giana is also active in the environmental, debate and yearbook clubs at Webutuck.

Giana began her Webutuck schooling in pre-K, she said with a smile during an interview on Wednesday, May 6.

One of her most formative educational experiences outside of Webutuck, Giana said, was her participation in New York University’s High School Law Institute, offered through the NYU law school. She was able to take law classes, speech and debate, criminal law and constitutional law.

“I learned a lot,” Giana said, particularly in view of her career interest in becoming an attorney and a businesswoman. Giana will enroll at Fordham University in the fall.

Already a young entrepreneur, Giana has started a small business of her own, creating and selling natural essential oils for use in perfumes.

During her Junior year, Giana founded the Webutuck Service Club, obtaining a grant from the Webutuck Quest for Excellence Fund. True to its theme of service, the club made birthday kits and wellness kits for distribution within the school community.

“I could go on and on,” Giana said when asked to share advice for students about to enter their high school years. “Find a balance,” she advised, “and take life one step at a time. Enjoy the process more than focusing on the end result.”

Praising both Giana and Salutatorian Zaina AbouEid, Webutuck High School Principal Matt Pascale said, “Both girls have worked extremely hard for this achievement; they’ve earned this.”

Zaina AbouEid, Salutatorian, Class of 2026

Strong in academics, confident in communication skills, and experienced in serving her community both in school and beyond, Zaina AbouEid has well-earned being named Salutatorian of the Webutuck High School Class of 2026.

Outside of school, Zaina participated in the Berkshire Taconic Foundation’s program, Youth and Democracy, an opportunity to create change by providing benefit to broader communities in which those students live. As part of the program, Zaina interviewed numerous local residents, gathering their ideas about bettering their communities.

Volunteering for the North East Community Center year-round was a significant growth experience for Zaina who helped with distributing food and household supplies and also working within their Child Day Care program.

Zaina’s college plans will take her to Marist University for studies to become a social worker, building on her experience in the community. She shared her plans during an interview on Wednesday, May 6.

Her active participation as president of the Culture and Climate Club at Webutuck saw the start of a student-of-the-month recognition program and an annual wellness day. She has also served as vice-president of the Environment Club and National Honor Society.

Zaina is a talented member of the high school band, accomplished on flute, and is an active member in the Student Council.

“You never know what you’re capable of until you take the risk,” was Zaina’s advice to students about to begin high school years. “When you face new challenges like meeting new friends, or finding your way around the unfamiliar building, or anticipating an exam, you’ll find the strength that you need.”

“I have realized how strong I am through challenges I’ve faced,” Zaina said, crediting staff and teachers for guidance along the way.

Commenting on the academic and personal strengths of both Zaina and Valedictorian Giana Kall, Webutuck High School Principal Matt Pascale said, “They come from wonderful families; they both have bright futures. They’ll be missed here.”