Emma Polinsky Honored at Superintendent’s Valedictorian’s Luncheon

Huntington High School senior Emma Polinsky was among those honored at the 32nd annual valedictorians’ recognition ceremony and luncheon hosted the Suffolk County School Superintendents Association at Villa Lombardi’s late last week.

Ms. Polinsky is the valedictorian of Huntington’s Class of 2026. She was joined at the luncheon by her parents, Dean of Student Support Robert Gilmor, Principal Rochelle C. Brown and Superintendent Beth McCoy.

“The key to my success has been trying to find the deeper meaning in my coursework,” Ms. Polinsky said. “When there’s something significant that I want to know more about, it makes learning more enjoyable. My drive for knowledge is exacerbated by noticing the value of understanding material of all different spheres. Throughout high school, what I’ve enjoyed most is the people I’ve met, who have shaped the positive environment around me. Good friends, as well as supportive teachers and administrators have made for a wonderful high school experience. Every relationship I've had has played a role in shaping my perspective and helping me better understand who I want to be.”

Ms. Polinsky played on the Blue Devil varsity girls’ tennis and Unified basketball teams. “I have been actively involved in several extracurricular activities throughout high school,” she said. “I served as a Public Health Ambassador for the Huntington Breast Cancer Action Coalition and as the Vice President of the high school’s Habitat for Humanity chapter, helping to support community service initiatives.”

The teenager has served as president of the high school’s Science Olympiad program and vice president of the Environment Club, “which allowed me to pursue my interest in science and environmental issues,” Ms. Polinsky said.

The 2026 valedictorian has served as the Science Honor Society’s tutoring coordinator. She captured third place at the Long Island regional finals in the National History Day initiative. She even participated in the New York State Children’s Environmental Health Centers summer and winter academy programs.

Ms. Polinsky will graduate with the Seal of Biliteracy designation on her diploma, indicating she is completely bilingual .

An Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction Award recipient, Ms. Polinsky plans to study psychology at the University of Virginia.