Talented Seniors Share National School Development Awards
July 28, 2025
Jose Diaz Gamaz and Toni Reyes-Sorto are two of the most impressive members of Huntington High School’s Class of 2025. The exceptional pair has been named this year’s recipients of the National School Development Council Awards.
Admired by classmates and teachers alike, the pair will be sorely missed next year when each begins the pursuit of a new set of goals at their respective colleges.
The National School Development Council is a confederation of school study or development councils located across the country.
Huntington Superintendent Beth McCoy and Deputy Superintendent Christopher Hender presented the teenagers with this year’s awards during the high school’s senior scholarship awards ceremony in the high school auditorium.
“The National School Development Council allows us to offer two awards recognizing students who have demonstrated exceptional academic growth and student leadership in learning,” Ms. McCoy said. “These two individuals have put their respective best feet forward in the classroom and have also immersed themselves in school life throughout their educational careers in Huntington.”
Mr. Diaz plans to study criminal justice at Farmingdale State College. “The key to my success has been waking up early every morning, being on time for school every day, finishing my homework on time and simply having a smile one my face, no matter what,” Mr. Diaz said. I always remind myself that you only have one life and I need to enjoy every second of it.”
Mr. Reyes-Sorto intends to pursue a degree in fashion design at Fashion Institute of Technology. “My success in high school has come from effective time management between school, work and extracurricular activities,” the teenager said. “I’ve especially appreciated how Huntington High School prepared me for higher education while offering a variety of activities and flexibility to explore different interests.:
“These two seniors are well respected by their peers and understand the importance of both family and community,” Mr. Hender said. “They are clearly ready to take the next steps, but I know that Huntington will remain a part of them indefinitely.”
Ms. McCoy and Mr. Hender presented Messrs. Diaz and Reyes-Sorto with certificates and gift cards.
“The Council embodies the philosophic and operational tenets of the school study and development council movement,” states the organization’s website. “Each of these regional, state, or county-based councils is, in turn, an association of local school systems that work together; usually in conjunction with one or more institutions of higher learning on matters of common concern.”