Two members of the Bethlehem Central High School Class of 2021 are being recognized as part of a select group of the Capital Region’s highest-achieving student scholars.
Justin Dong and Aijah Garcia were selected by the BCHS Counseling Center to represent Bethlehem at the 35th annual Capital Region Scholars’ Recognition Program, which honors top students from more than 25 area high schools. The program is sponsored by the Capital Area School Development Association (CASDA).
A unique feature of the CASDA Scholars’ Recognition Program is that each student winner is asked to choose one teacher who has had a significant impact on their high school education. This year, both students chose the same teacher, Rachel Linehan, who teaches math and computer science at the high school.
You can read more about these scholars and what they have to say about Ms. Linehan below. Congratulations to Justin and Aijah, and thank you, Ms. Linehan!
Read more about all of the 2021 Capital Region Scholars: https://www.casdany.org/2021-scholars-winners
Justin Dong
Justin Dong is simply a remarkable person. He is graduating a full year early. He received a perfect score of 1,600 on the SATs even though he took the exam as a sophomore, a year earlier than most students. Justin would best be described as a curious, diligent, open-minded and adaptive student. He is excited to continue his studies in mathematical methods in the social sciences and computer science at Northwestern University.
Here’s what Justin had to say about Ms. Linehan:
Ms. Linehan inspired me to explore my interest in computer science through her intuitive teaching style, exciting classroom environment, and encouragement of collaboration and problem-solving. I’m very grateful for the skills and knowledge that she’s taught me.
Aijah Garcia
Aijah is a gifted academic student who will graduate from BCHS having completed 36 college credits! She has a radiant smile and treats others with respect and kindness. Aijah looks forward to continuing her studies in computer science and applied math at Brown University.
Here’s what Aijah had to say about Ms. Linehan:
I have had Ms. Linehan as a teacher for two years, and she has never failed to encourage my involvement and interest in computer science. She is a great inspiration and has always pushed me to act on my curiosity, which I truly appreciate.