H. Frank Carey High School has named Michelle Zheng and Grace Leimgruber as the valedictorian and salutatorian, respectively, of the Class of 2024.
Michelle is regarded as a dedicated, respectful student. Her academic success is apparent through her recognition as a Commended Student in the National Merit Scholarship Program and an AP Scholar with Distinction. Michelle is a recipient of the Brown University Book Award, which is granted to a student who exhibits excellent verbal and written communication skills. She is a member of the Math, English, Science, Social Studies, World Language, and National Honor Societies. In addition to her academics, Michelle is a talented three-sport athlete, participating in varsity cross country, varsity basketball, and varsity spring track and field. Her commitment and dedication have earned her multiple awards, including the Unsung Hero Award, Most Improved Award and Most Valuable Player Award. Michelle has earned All-Division status in the 4x800 relay as well. She has accumulated over 70 hours tutoring her peers in all subjects. She also volunteers at nursing stations, the physical therapy unit and in the emergency services department at Mercy Hospital in Rockville Centre.
Grace is a motivated student who strives to excel. Her impressive transcript includes 11 Advanced Placement courses, and her AP scores have earned her the recognition of being named an AP Scholar with Distinction. She also earned mastery on every Regents exam she has taken. Grace is a member of the English, Math, Science, Social Studies, World Language, and National honor societies. She displays her leadership skills as the captain of the varsity girls volleyball, varsity softball and varsity winter track and field teams. Her athletic achievements have garnered her multiple accolades, including All-County and All-Conference recognitions for winter track and field, and All-Conference for softball. She has transitioned her softball experience to volunteer work, helping run a softball clinic for children ages 8-12 with LI Thunder, a travel softball organization. Additionally, Grace helps elementary school students practice their reading skills through the Franklin Square Public Library’s Summer Reading Buddies program.