Hilton alum Rylie DelVecchio recently graduated from SUNY Brockport and excelled at more than just academics, although she was impressive in the classroom, carrying a 3.98 GPA with a double major in Social Work and Sociology.
She also is the embodiment of the Cadet Intentional Values of Integrity, Welcoming and Affirming, People First and Lifelong Learning. Here's a summary of some of her accomplishments:
Rylie DelVecchio is a student in the Honors College with a 3.98 GPA, majoring in both Social Work and Sociology, with a minor in Women & Gender Studies. She is described by faculty as astute, passionate, reflective, and committed to “deep learning.” Her compassion for others is reflected in her goal of a career advocating for underserved communities. She is a member of both Alpha Kappa Delta, the Sociology Honor Society, and Iota, Iota, Iota, the Women and Gender Honors Society. Rylie earned recognition as the Sociology Departmental Scholar, the Sociology Department’s nominee for Arts and Sciences Outstanding Student, and the Outstanding Women and Gender Studies Minor Award. She served as a Student Evaluation Assistant to a Sociology professor for the Surviving and Finding Empowerment (SAFE) Court, a human trafficking court providing case management and other services to women who have experienced sexual exploitation and offering safe pathways out of the criminal justice system. She also serves as coalition member and Internal Education Chair for the World Without Exploitation’s Youth Coalition and in this role, she conducts education workshops and recently published an op-ed.
Rylie served as an intern in the Kluge Center at the Library of Congress, where she worked alongside Pulitzer-winning journalist Molly O’Toole on Molly’s forthcoming nonfiction book about immigration policy, called “The Route: Global Migration to the U.S. Border.” Molly described Rylie as “a peer” and said, “Frankly, at her age, I was quite far from her level of academic rigor, research capability, maturity and professionalism…I know she’ll do great things.” Rylie also was an impressive student in the DC Internship program, often engaging at high levels with professionals from civil rights groups, policy think tanks, and government agencies. Rylie has also served the greater community in multiple ways, including roles with the United Nations Association of Rochester, Rochester Global Connections, and Meals on Wheels, as well as a Volunteer Crisis Counselor. Rylie played on Brockport’s women’s Soccer team. She has just started an internship with Our Local History, focused on sharing local civil rights history in Rochester.
She also is the embodiment of the Cadet Intentional Values of Integrity, Welcoming and Affirming, People First and Lifelong Learning. Here's a summary of some of her accomplishments:
Rylie DelVecchio is a student in the Honors College with a 3.98 GPA, majoring in both Social Work and Sociology, with a minor in Women & Gender Studies. She is described by faculty as astute, passionate, reflective, and committed to “deep learning.” Her compassion for others is reflected in her goal of a career advocating for underserved communities. She is a member of both Alpha Kappa Delta, the Sociology Honor Society, and Iota, Iota, Iota, the Women and Gender Honors Society. Rylie earned recognition as the Sociology Departmental Scholar, the Sociology Department’s nominee for Arts and Sciences Outstanding Student, and the Outstanding Women and Gender Studies Minor Award. She served as a Student Evaluation Assistant to a Sociology professor for the Surviving and Finding Empowerment (SAFE) Court, a human trafficking court providing case management and other services to women who have experienced sexual exploitation and offering safe pathways out of the criminal justice system. She also serves as coalition member and Internal Education Chair for the World Without Exploitation’s Youth Coalition and in this role, she conducts education workshops and recently published an op-ed.
Rylie served as an intern in the Kluge Center at the Library of Congress, where she worked alongside Pulitzer-winning journalist Molly O’Toole on Molly’s forthcoming nonfiction book about immigration policy, called “The Route: Global Migration to the U.S. Border.” Molly described Rylie as “a peer” and said, “Frankly, at her age, I was quite far from her level of academic rigor, research capability, maturity and professionalism…I know she’ll do great things.” Rylie also was an impressive student in the DC Internship program, often engaging at high levels with professionals from civil rights groups, policy think tanks, and government agencies. Rylie has also served the greater community in multiple ways, including roles with the United Nations Association of Rochester, Rochester Global Connections, and Meals on Wheels, as well as a Volunteer Crisis Counselor. Rylie played on Brockport’s women’s Soccer team. She has just started an internship with Our Local History, focused on sharing local civil rights history in Rochester.
On June 1st the High School will be hosting an IB showcase. That night you'll have the opportunity to see and hear from students at every level of the IB program. Want to hear from some recent graduates about what the IB Diploma has meant to them? Find out here: https://www.hilton.k12.ny.us/page/office-of-instruction
Karen Velyk's students made the most of their half-day at QUEST. As part of their exhibition, they decided they wanted to learn more about the outside, so that's just what they did. They used a tent for a classroom, did crafts, and took advantage of the sunny weather to explore their "campsite."
Merton Williams students had the opportunity to hear from an award-winning author yesterday. Linda Sue Park, Newberry Medal winner for A Single Shard spoke to seventh graders about her upbringing as a child of Korean immigrants, the challenges and rewards of being an author, and the importance of reading.
Ms. Park is the author of many other books, including the New York Times Best Seller A Long Walk to Water. She has just released a new book, Just One Gift.
For pictures from her visit, click here: https://hiltonschools.smugmug.com/2025-2026/Merton-Williams/Author-Visit
Ms. Park is the author of many other books, including the New York Times Best Seller A Long Walk to Water. She has just released a new book, Just One Gift.
For pictures from her visit, click here: https://hiltonschools.smugmug.com/2025-2026/Merton-Williams/Author-Visit
Coming up on June 11 at Merton Williams... One Night Only! Our Art and Music fest returns, with our outdoor Art Show and concert! See artwork from all of our student-artists and come enjoy performances from student-ensembles! Also, enjoy art-making activities and opportunities to create, and if you'd like to enjoy a treat "The Creamery" will be on hand selling ice cream! A wonderful annual event for all ages! June 11, 6:00-7:30 in front of Merton Williams! (event will be indoors if weather is an issue!)
Thank you to everyone who came out to vote in yesterday's annual budget vote and school board elections. Here are the results on all three propositions as well as the two candidates who were selected for the Board of Education:
Proposition One (Budget)
Yes: 851
No: 492
Proposition Two (Gas and Diesel Bus Purchase)
Yes: 933
No: 417
Proposition Three (Electric Bus Purchase)
Yes: 491
No: 860
Board of Education (Three People Running for Two Seats)
Samantha Fowler: 895x
Lynda Donovan: 624
Kristine Price: 793x
Proposition One (Budget)
Yes: 851
No: 492
Proposition Two (Gas and Diesel Bus Purchase)
Yes: 933
No: 417
Proposition Three (Electric Bus Purchase)
Yes: 491
No: 860
Board of Education (Three People Running for Two Seats)
Samantha Fowler: 895x
Lynda Donovan: 624
Kristine Price: 793x
Colleges around the area celebrated graduation this past weekend, including the University at Buffalo, where Hilton Class of 2022 graduate Jessica Williams received her degree, with honors (she achieved a 3.99 GPA) along with a number of accolades:
She received the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence. This award highest honor bestowed upon a student by the University, this award celebrates outstanding achievements across multiple dimensions of excellence, including academics, service, leadership, diversity, equity, inclusion & justice, and campus involvement. Jessica traveled to Albany in April to formally accept these distinguished awards, a powerful testament to her exceptional contributions during her time at UB which were fostered through her years at Hilton.
The Dorothy M. Haas Community Engagement Award – "Pillar of Leadership" This prestigious recognition honors Jessica's exceptional dedication to community engagement and leadership, naming her a true pillar of service within the University at Buffalo community.
Service Award – 500+ Hours of Dedicated Service Jessica has demonstrated unwavering commitment to serving others, contributing over 500+ hours of community service during her time at the University—a testament to her passion for making a meaningful difference.
Congratulations to Jessica on all she has accomplished in her college career.
She received the SUNY Chancellor's Award for Student Excellence. This award highest honor bestowed upon a student by the University, this award celebrates outstanding achievements across multiple dimensions of excellence, including academics, service, leadership, diversity, equity, inclusion & justice, and campus involvement. Jessica traveled to Albany in April to formally accept these distinguished awards, a powerful testament to her exceptional contributions during her time at UB which were fostered through her years at Hilton.
The Dorothy M. Haas Community Engagement Award – "Pillar of Leadership" This prestigious recognition honors Jessica's exceptional dedication to community engagement and leadership, naming her a true pillar of service within the University at Buffalo community.
Service Award – 500+ Hours of Dedicated Service Jessica has demonstrated unwavering commitment to serving others, contributing over 500+ hours of community service during her time at the University—a testament to her passion for making a meaningful difference.
Congratulations to Jessica on all she has accomplished in her college career.
We are looking for cleaners to join our team! For more information, head here: https://hilton.recruitfront.com/JobPostingCategory?CID=198
These incredible students and others will be presenting their projects as part of the District-Wide IB Showcase on June 1st. Student projects this year ranged from Learning American Sign Language to Building Furniture. Learn more about IB at all grade levels, and here from recent graduates about what the IB experience has meant to them after high school. Hope you can join us at the High School on June 1st from 6:30-8:00.
Last night a pair of Hilton High School seniors had the opportunity to throw out the first pitch at the Rochester Red Wings Game. Great job by Hope Carter and Owen Hunsinger, members of the New York State Champion Marching Band. If you want to get some more Hilton with your Red Wings, this Saturday our elementary school choruses will be singing the National Anthem. You Can purchase tickets here: https://www.ticketreturn.com/prod2new/BuyNew.asp?EventID=354315&tfl=#
What a night! ✨Hilton High School Theatre’s CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION shined at RBTL’s Stars of Tomorrow 🎭❤
Hilton High Schools' Theatre program received accolades for achievement in:
⭐Theatrical Storytelling
⭐Acting Ensemble
⭐Vocal Ensemble
⭐Dance Ensemble
⭐Production Crew
⭐Production Design
Achievement in Performance in a Leading Role was awarded to:
⭐Paige Blonsky - "Roxie Hart"
⭐Charizma Scott - "Mama Morton"
⭐Lia Turner - "Velma Kelly"
Special recognition from their directors for their outstanding contributions in the production was awarded to:
⭐Paige Blonsky - "Roxie Hart,” Theatre Secretary
⭐Samantha Sarnowski - Stage Manager
Peer-nominated "All-Stars" were acknowledged for their reliability, respect, and support:
⭐Lia Turner - Theatre President
⭐Lilah Mastin - Stage Manager
"A Tip of The Hat" for excellence in non-adjudicated roles was awarded by the Stars of Tomorrow evaluators to:
⭐Lylah Mason - "Mary Sunshine"
⭐Lilah Mastin - Stage Manager
⭐Samantha Sarnowski - Stage Manager
NYC Bound Nominees:
⭐Charizma Scott - "Mama Morton"
⭐Lia Turner - "Velma Kelly"
Our season was powered by collaboration, passion, and tireless dedication. We are deeply grateful to every performer, technician, pit band member, family, volunteer, and staff person who helped create such lasting memories. Can’t wait to share our next musical with you on April 9–11, 2027! 🎶👏
Hilton High Schools' Theatre program received accolades for achievement in:
⭐Theatrical Storytelling
⭐Acting Ensemble
⭐Vocal Ensemble
⭐Dance Ensemble
⭐Production Crew
⭐Production Design
Achievement in Performance in a Leading Role was awarded to:
⭐Paige Blonsky - "Roxie Hart"
⭐Charizma Scott - "Mama Morton"
⭐Lia Turner - "Velma Kelly"
Special recognition from their directors for their outstanding contributions in the production was awarded to:
⭐Paige Blonsky - "Roxie Hart,” Theatre Secretary
⭐Samantha Sarnowski - Stage Manager
Peer-nominated "All-Stars" were acknowledged for their reliability, respect, and support:
⭐Lia Turner - Theatre President
⭐Lilah Mastin - Stage Manager
"A Tip of The Hat" for excellence in non-adjudicated roles was awarded by the Stars of Tomorrow evaluators to:
⭐Lylah Mason - "Mary Sunshine"
⭐Lilah Mastin - Stage Manager
⭐Samantha Sarnowski - Stage Manager
NYC Bound Nominees:
⭐Charizma Scott - "Mama Morton"
⭐Lia Turner - "Velma Kelly"
Our season was powered by collaboration, passion, and tireless dedication. We are deeply grateful to every performer, technician, pit band member, family, volunteer, and staff person who helped create such lasting memories. Can’t wait to share our next musical with you on April 9–11, 2027! 🎶👏
The second annual Sources of Strength Color Run is fast approaching! Register by scanning the QR code in the flyer or by using this link: https://runsignup.com/Race/NY/Hilton/SourcesOfStrengthKColorRun
The 2026 New York State SkillsUSA Leadership and Skills Championships took place at the New York State Fairgrounds in Syracuse from April 22-24.
Two Hilton students earned second place finishes in their respective individual competitions: Dental Assisting student, Ceren Ogut in Dental Assisting and Automotive Technology student, Patrick Riscignolo in Automotive Service Technology.
Two other Hilton students earned third place in their respective team competitions: HVAC student, Michael Hare in Team Works and Dental Assisting student, Emily Killeen in Opening and Closing Ceremonies.
Two Hilton students earned second place finishes in their respective individual competitions: Dental Assisting student, Ceren Ogut in Dental Assisting and Automotive Technology student, Patrick Riscignolo in Automotive Service Technology.
Two other Hilton students earned third place in their respective team competitions: HVAC student, Michael Hare in Team Works and Dental Assisting student, Emily Killeen in Opening and Closing Ceremonies.
Congratulations to Mike Brown on being named Hilton's Community Champion for Public Education by ACT. Mike has been an integral member of the Village Elementary family, helping out in every way imaginable.
RBTL’s Stars of Tomorrow celebrates high school musicals across Monroe and nearby counties. Trained adjudicators score productions and give written feedback in areas like acting, vocals, dance, design, and production crew.
At the Celebration Gala, schools perform on the West Herr Auditorium Theatre stage, and recognition is given to schools with the highest scores in each of the adjudicated categories. Hilton High School will perform “All That Jazz” from CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION in Act 4 (of six acts) during the Gala.
Watch the 2026 Stars of Tomorrow Celebration Gala live Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM on the News 8 WROC Rochester First TV streaming app: https://www.rochesterfirst.com/watch-news-8-wroc-on-the-rochesterfirst-tv-app/(opens in new tab)
At the Celebration Gala, schools perform on the West Herr Auditorium Theatre stage, and recognition is given to schools with the highest scores in each of the adjudicated categories. Hilton High School will perform “All That Jazz” from CHICAGO: TEEN EDITION in Act 4 (of six acts) during the Gala.
Watch the 2026 Stars of Tomorrow Celebration Gala live Friday, May 8 at 7:00 PM on the News 8 WROC Rochester First TV streaming app: https://www.rochesterfirst.com/watch-news-8-wroc-on-the-rochesterfirst-tv-app/(opens in new tab)
The Meron Williams SADD/FUN club went over to Village Elementary this week for another meet up with its " Little Buddies". The club worked with Mrs. Ingles P.E. classes that they have established a great relationship with. The lessons were geared towards " Summer Safety" water/pool, bike, sun, and stranger danger.
Then the club played fun games with the 1st graders.
This has been a yearlong relationship, and it has been wonderful for all the students.
Then the club played fun games with the 1st graders.
This has been a yearlong relationship, and it has been wonderful for all the students.
The 2026 Meet the Candidates Night recording is now available online. Please use this link to view: https://youtu.be/gymba1Rh3g0
Don't forget, June 1st the district will be holding its IB Showcase. It's a chance to see some amazing project put together at all grade levels as well as talk to recent graduates about their experiences in IB and how it has benefited them after high school.
Hilton Community Education is once again offering Lifeguard Certification classes. They will be held on May 27 and June 10. To register, use the following link:
https://hcsd.cr3.rschooltoday.com/public/costoption/class_id/1979
If you're interested in being a lifeguard for the district this summer, you can contact Tara Merino in the Athletics Department.
Students in Claire Dexler's Health Sciences Classes had a chance to learn about and use one of the most important food items in history, yeast. Not only did they discover that it's been used for thousands of years, but they also saw the chemical reaction of fermentation and how it rises to help create dough. The best part came when they got to use that dough to make pizzas.
