Where Are Valedictorians, Salutatorians At Ramapo-Indian Hills Going To College?

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — The Ramapo-Indian Hills School District, a competitive district, consists of two high schools that drawn teens from Wyckoff, Oakland, and Franklin Lakes.

Last week, the district announced the valedictorian and salutatorian from each of the two high schools, and where they plan to go next — if they've decided.

Below are the releases from each of the two high schools:

Ramapo High School

Ramapo High School proudly announces Wyatt Eglinton Manner as valedictorian and Griffin Eisele as salutatorian of the Class of 2024.

Wyatt, who has consistently challenged himself to achieve academic excellence, is one of New Jersey’s premier basketball players and scholar athletes. Over the course of his high school career, Wyatt has scored a total of 1000 points and was recently recognized by the NJSIAA as Athlete of the Week. Wyatt is a civic-minded individual who is considerate and empathetic of others. Each summer, he shares his passion for basketball with “Bounce Out the Stigma," a non- profit organization for children with physical and learning disabilities. In addition to serving as a basketball camp counselor, Wyatt also participated in “Mad for Kids”, a charity aiming to make a difference in the quality of life for orphans and vulnerable children living in Zambia.

In his junior year, Wyatt was inducted into the National Honor Society and assisted in tutoring students at Ramapo High School. Wyatt plans to attend Johns Hopkins University in the fall and will continue his basketball career.

“To me, being named valedictorian means I stayed focused in high school. The factors that contributed to my academic success can mainly be attributed to my parents. They have a lot of trust in me and have allowed me to have the high school experience, while still ensuring that I do well in school,” said Wyatt, reflecting on his achievement.

“I feel that time management is probably the most important aspect of academic success, and knowing what is best for your mental health, to always put it first. Whether it be taking a study break, finding time to bike around or fish, or even simply taking a nap, knowing how to get my work done while still enjoying my time in school was essential for succeeding academically.”

Griffin is a serious and devoted scholar who excels in school. He challenges himself with rigorous courses and is determined to meet his goals. Due to his hard work and commitment, Griffin was selected to be a member of the National Honor Society in his junior year. He was chosen by the American Legion to attend New Jersey Boys State, a program that educates children in the duties, privileges, rights, and responsibilities of American citizenship.

Griffin has been a member of the Boy Scouts since fifth grade. He has earned the rank of Life and is working toward the rank of Eagle, while currently serving as a Senior Patrol Leader, which is the highest leadership position in the troop.

Griffin is the Captain of the Cross Country team and is in the process of finalizing his college decision.

“Wyatt and Griffin have exemplified excellence as valedictorian and salutatorian of our Class of 2024. Their unwavering commitment to academic achievement and leadership is commendable,” said Principal Travis Smith. “We celebrate their remarkable accomplishments and extend our heartfelt congratulations, wishing them continued success on their journey ahead.”

Wyatt and Griffin will be formally recognized during the commencement ceremony for the Class of 2024 on June 21.

“I commend both these young men for achieving the titles of valedictorian and salutatorian as their academic excellence and leadership are exemplary. Best wishes for their future endeavors,” said Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Baker.

Indian Hills

Indian Hills High School is proud to announce the outstanding achievements of the students named valedictorian and salutatorian for the Class of 2024.

Krishan Patel has been selected as valedictorian. As an integral member of the esteemed International Studies and Business Program, Krishan has left a lasting impact within the Indian Hills community. His leadership roles as DECA Vice President, Student Council Vice President, and active National Honors Society member reflect his commitment to positive change.

Krishan’s efforts in organizing pep rallies and reinstating Homecoming demonstrate his dedication beyond academics. Outside school, he enjoys rock climbing along with volunteeringfor the Oakland First Aid Squad and Valley Hospital. Krishan plans to pursue studies in healthcare management.

“I’m honored to be named valedictorian. It’s a testament to my own work but also a direct representation of the competitive environment at Indian Hills that pushed me and encouraged my growth. It is undeniable that without the support of my fellow classmates, I would not have pushed myself to reach as high of academic heights as I have reached today. In addition to my classmates, credit goes to my parents and sister,” said Krishan, reflecting on his achievement.

“This title is rewarding, but the true prize of it all is being able to fulfill a crazy dream that has thrived throughout my four years of high school.”

Daniel Zelster has been named salutatorian. As a participant in the Science, Medicine, and Research University Program, Daniel’s passion for research led him to attend the New Jersey Governor’s School of Engineering and Technology at Rutgers University. His group’s on Parkinson’s disease earned them a presentation slot at MIT. Daniel, a recipient of the University of Rochester Xerox Award for Innovation and Information Technology, is also involved in various clubs and sports. He was chosen based on his strong interest in innovation and information technology, as well as his exposure to new technologies outside of school, such as pursuing serious work opportunities in local laboratories/industry. He will pursue Biomedical Engineering at Duke University.

“We are incredibly proud of Krishan and Daniel for their exceptional achievements,” said >Principal Dr. Gregory Vacca.

“They have demonstrated remarkable dedication and commitment to their studies, and their accomplishments reflect the high standards of Indian Hills High School. We congratulate them on this well-deserved honor and wish them continued success in all their future endeavors.”

The valedictorian and salutatorian will be formally recognized during the commencement ceremony for the Class of 2024 on June 21.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Krishan and Daniel. Your dedication to excellence serves as an inspiration to all students. May your achievements pave the way for bright futures filled with success and fulfillment,” said Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. James Baker.