The Sidney Central School District honored its valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2026 on Monday.

The valedictorian is Dejah Taylor, and the salutatorian is Michael Morrissey. They were each presented with a certificate and gift during the celebration event. Each student is scheduled to speak at graduation, which is scheduled for 10 a.m. Saturday, June 27 at the District Transportation Center.

During the celebration, Jr/Sr High School Principal Maggie McNamara and Assistant Principal Katie Rogan spoke about each student. Their words are below.

Dejah Taylor

Words from Maggie McNamara:

It is my honor to recognize the Class of 2026 valedictorian, Dejah Taylor.

Throughout her years at Sidney Jr./Sr. High School, Dejah has distinguished herself through an outstanding work ethic, an unwavering commitment to her goals, and the courage to challenge herself at every turn. She embodies what it truly means to be self-driven—consistently pushing herself to achieve more, not for praise or recognition, but to meet the high standards she sets for herself.

Dejah has pursued a rigorous academic program, earning college credits across multiple disciplines while working toward an Advanced Regents Diploma with a math endorsement. Her success is not simply a reflection of her intelligence, but of her discipline and commitment to excellence.

Beyond the classroom, Dejah’s leadership reflects both strength of character and a deep sense of responsibility. She has served as President of the National Honor Society, Vice President of the Class of 2026, and Vice President of SSADD. In each role, she has led with integrity, purpose, and the courage to take initiative. As a Student Ambassador and participant in programs such as RYLA and HOBY, she has proudly represented our school with confidence and poise.

In athletics, Dejah’s determination and competitive spirit have earned her Outstanding Athlete honors in track and field and field hockey, as well as multiple Athlete of the Week awards. What truly defines her, however, is her consistency and grit—showing up each day ready to give her full effort, regardless of the challenge before her.

Next year, Dejah plans to pursue a degree in Business with a focus on accounting. Regardless of where her future takes her, I have no doubt she will make a meaningful impact. With her kindness, resilience, courage, and determination, I am certain she will continue to set herself apart and achieve great success.

Please join me in congratulating our valedictorian, Dejah Taylor.

Michael Morrissey

Words from Katie Rogan:

It is a great privilege to recognize a student whose achievements, leadership, and character have left a lasting mark on our school community—Michael Morrissey.

Michael will graduate with a New York State Advanced Regents Diploma, a distinction that reflects his commitment to academic excellence. Throughout high school, he has challenged himself with a full college course load while maintaining high academic standards, participating in extracurricular activities, and holding a part-time job.

Michael has been an active participant in Sidney CSD’s Project Lead The Way program, a member of the National Honor Society, Rotary Club, SADD, and a Teen Institute Youth Staff member. He was selected to represent our school at Boys State, where he further developed the leadership qualities that have become one of his defining strengths.

As a four-year varsity football player and team captain, and a four-year varsity track and field athlete, Michael has demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and teamwork. His accomplishments in track and field have been especially impressive, earning him recognition as one of our most accomplished student-athletes. Last year, Michael earned the highest honor as a NYS Champion in the Discuss.

His hard work and academic achievements have also been recognized through receiving the RIT Computing Medal Scholarship.

Beyond his accomplishments, Michael is known for his kindness, strong work ethic, positive attitude, and willingness to lead by example. He is a role model to younger students and someone who consistently demonstrates exceptional teamwork and time management skills.

Next year, Michael will embark on an exciting new adventure as an exchange student in Chile before returning home to attend college and pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering.

Please join me in congratulating the Salutatorian of the Sidney Class of 2026, Michael Morrissey.

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