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MAY 6, 2026—The Palmyra-Macedon Central School District is proud to announce its Valedictorian and Salutatorian for the Class of 2026.

George Newsome IV and Ella Eakins were formally recognized during the Board of Education (BOE) meeting on Tuesday night. Both will represent their classmates at the 2026 Graduation Ceremony, which will be held at Lincoln Hill Farms in Canandaigua on Thursday, June 11. 

Below you can read some information about Newsome and Eakins. We would like to congratulate them both for this amazing honor.

 

George Newsome IV (Valedictorian)

Newsome pictured with Board member Sarah Newman

Distinguished by his academic excellence in advanced STEM coursework and his goals in military service, George brings Pal-Mac great pride in and beyond the classroom. George has demonstrated exceptional leadership and discipline as the Captain and MVP of the Varsity Swimming team.

His strong work ethic also extends to his involvement in a local Flight Club and his professional experiences with a local tree service. Looking toward the future, George is driven by a clear vision for a career at the intersection of STEM and military service.

His goal is to lead with distinction in the engineering and military sectors, applying his aptitude for aerospace and mechanical engineering to serve the community and the world.

Above all, George is recognized for his high integrity and authentic character, qualities that have earned him the profound respect of his peers and faculty alike.

George will be attending the United States Military Academy at West Point, with a plan to enroll in the Army Corps of Engineers. As a piece of advice to incoming high school students, George recommends students challenge themselves and try their hardest in everything they do.

 

Ella Eakins (Salutatorian)

Eakins pictured with Board member Sherry Lambert

Ella has distinguished herself as an exceptional student whose intellect, creativity, and leadership have earned her recognition as Salutatorian of the Palmyra-Macedon Class of 2026.

Ranked second in her class, Ella has challenged herself with a rigorous academic program while excelling in both mathematics and the arts—an intersection that reflects her passion for architecture and her unique ability to bring structure and imagination together.

Beyond the classroom, she has led with quiet strength and determination, serving as Varsity Tennis Captain, contributing to numerous organizations, and supporting younger students as both a leader and role model. Ella consistently approaches each endeavor with purpose, integrity, and compassion, leaving a lasting impression on those around her.

She is a student who not only achieves at a high level, but also uplifts her school community.

Ella will be attending Kent State University to study Architecture. She said her favorite memories from Pal-Mac included competing in tennis, and going on the senior trip.