Following years of demonstrating outstanding leadership and athletic ability, North Babylon High School seniors Tyler Schmitt and Alyssa Vignone were selected to receive the 2012 Suffolk Zone Award from the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

The Suffolk Zone honors only one senior male and female student from each high school. To be eligible, students must have earned at least a 90 percent average in physical education class and a minimum 3.0 overall grade point average in all classes prior to their senior year, demonstrate outstanding character, show leadership skills in both physical education class and general schoolwide activities, and serve as role models for other students.

Ranked 18 in a class of 402, Tyler is a member of the National Honor Society and Leaders Club and has participated in varsity baseball and varsity track, for which he was selected as All-League (referring to track only?). Tyler plans to attend Le Moyne College and major in engineering. “Bright, articulate, understanding and determined are just a few words to describe this young man,” remarked Director of Physical Education, Health, Recreation and Athletics John V. Sparacio. “He is a steward of leadership and is focused on accomplishing his goals. Tyler understands how to work cooperatively with others and is able to share his knowledge to better those around him.”

A member of the Leaders Club and National Honor Society, an active volunteer in her community and captain of the girls varsity soccer team, Alyssa plans to major in nursing at Molloy College. “Alyssa is a very motivated and passionate individual who embraces everything she does,” said Mr. Sporacio. “Her academic and athletic abilities have opened up many avenues for her to explore and excel in. She is a vibrant leader in and out of the classroom.”