At Schenectady High School, each and every one of our graduating seniors has accomplished so much, but 10 students in particular have excelled in their studies and earned a spot on the SCSD 2025 Top 10 list. These students have been examples to their peers as to what you can achieve with hard work and dedication, and have gone through the trials and tribulations of high school and managed to land on top. We are so proud of these students and know that they will go on to do incredible things.
Our next SHS Top 10 student feature is Jayda Palmer. We spoke with Jayda about her overall high school experience, her takeaways, and whats next for her.
What are your future plans?
Union College, Political Science
What are you most proud of from high school?
I am most proud of my completion of the IB program and maintaining my status as an IB diploma candidate.
What’s one piece of advice you'd give to incoming freshmen?
My advice to incoming freshmen would be to get involved in as many activities as possible and to take every opportunity given to you.
What has been your favorite class or teacher and why?
My favorite classes are Criminal Justice and Civil Law with Mr. Chapman. They are always super enjoyable for me because he is so knowledgeable, not only about the law, but about everything. Everyday, I learned something new in his classes.
What clubs, sports, or activities have you been involved in?
Masterminds
Varsity Basketball
Mock Trial
Assemblyman Santa Barbara's Student Council
IB Newsletter,
Peer Mentoring
What’s your dream job or career goal?
My career goal is to become an attorney/prosecutor.
Who has inspired or supported you the most during high school?
Mrs. Valentino has inspired me the most during high school. She is an unbelievably talented and intelligent teacher. She is passionate about everything she does, and makes constant efforts to support her students even when they aren't in her class anymore. I wish to be as dedicated and wise as her throughout my life and career.
Favorite memory from your high school experience?
My favorite memory is the field trip to the Albany Museum of Art and History and lunch at Washington Park.
Congratulations Jayda on this incredible accomplishment! You are a prime example of our strategic plans student and graduate success pillar, as you have shown you have the academic capacity and skills to tackle anything that stands in your way. Your hard work and passion for learning has paid off, and we are so excited to watch the bright future ahead of you unfold.