East Islip HS names Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian

East Islip High School has announced its Class of 2026 valedictorian and salutatorian, recognizing two seniors whose academic records and extracurricular involvement span a wide range of leadership roles and honors.

Principal Anthony Montemarano delivered the news on Tuesday in a ceremony attended by family members and school community members, naming Liam Eichler as valedictorian and Angel Mai as salutatorian.

Both students have been designated AP Scholars with Distinction and will graduate with AP Capstone Diplomas, reflecting advanced coursework and sustained academic achievement.

Eichler, a Commended Student in the 2026 National Merit Scholarship Program, has taken on multiple leadership positions at East Islip High School.

He is president of the National Honor Society at the high school and serves as captain of the Academic Team. He is also a captain on the varsity cross-country and tennis teams.

During his junior year in high school, Eichler was awarded the Rensselaer Medal, recognizing outstanding academic performance in math and science.

“I wasn’t really looking to have the title of valedictorian,” he said. “I just try to put an effort into whatever I do at school.”

The valedictorian is considering attending Carnegie Mellon University, where he would likely begin studies in architecture before transitioning into business. His long-term career goals are in real estate, he said.

Mai holds a broad slate of leadership roles, serving as ex-officio board of education member for East Islip, co-president of the Science Honor Society, vice president of the Class of 2026, and student government secretary. She is also a member of the National Honor Society, National Art Honor Society and World Language Honor Society.

“I am really surprised to be named salutatorian, but I’m happy and grateful,” said Mai, who has not finalized her college decision.

She intends to pursue nursing, with a goal of becoming a registered nurse and later a certified registered nurse anesthetist.

_{Top: Courtesy of East Islip School District.}