Damaris Hernandez, a senior from Lynbrook High School, was recently selected as one of 25 high school seniors from New York State to be nominated for the 2021 United States Presidential Scholars Program. Being recognized in the program is one of the highest honors that a high school student can obtain. Damaris was one of five New York seniors to be nominated for demonstrating ability and accomplishment in career and technical education.

The prestigious program honors up to 161 students each year as scholars. These students represent excellence in education and the promise of greatness in young people. Presidential Scholars are selected by the Commission on Presidential Scholars based on one of three paths of accomplishment – academic achievement, academic and artistic scholarship in the visual arts, performing arts or creative writing, or outstanding scholarship and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.
  
Damaris is currently enrolled at Nassau BOCES Barry Tech where she is part of the physical therapy and rehabilitation medicine program which she calls “the best decision of her life.”

“I get to work with my teacher who is a chiropractor and she teaches me many life lessons,” she said. “I get so much hands-on experience that I feel I’ll be set in the real world.  It is like working in a hospital, it’s such an amazing and beneficial experience that I’m forever thankful for.”

Last year, she served as an orthodontist assistant where she helped clean and translate patient details and information. Damaris currently works at a professional physical therapy office where she serves as a physical therapy aid. Among her responsibilities, she helps sanitize, assess exercises and assist the doctors in the office.

Aside from her career and technical education experience, Damaris is an active member of the Lynbrook High School community. She was a valuable member of the school’s cheer team and softball team where she served as co-captain of the varsity team last year. Damaris also served as the vice-president of the school’s Spanish club and joined the Diversity Club this year. For the past four years, Damaris has enjoyed working with children in the district’s Summer Playground Program.

The Lynbrook Public Schools congratulates her on this outstanding recognition!