Meet the Salutatorian: Mia Carleo, Oyster Bay High School Class of 2027

From the soccer field to the concert stage, the science lab to the student council, Mia Carleo has spent her years at Oyster Bay High School exploring her interests, taking on leadership roles and finding ways to make a difference. Now, as the Class of 2027 salutatorian, she can add one more accomplishment to an already impressive high school career.

An OBEN student since pre-K, Mia has made the most of her years in the district, excelling in the classroom while pursuing her interests in science, music, athletics and community service.

Throughout high school, Mia has taken on numerous leadership roles, serving as an officer on both the Student Council Class and Executive Boards and as president of the National Honor Society. She has also been a member of the girls varsity soccer team for all four years and an active participant in the school's music program. A member of the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band, Marching Band and Tri-M Music Honor Society, Mia earned a perfect score on her Level 4 NYSSMA solo.

Outside of school, Mia has demonstrated her commitment to helping others through volunteer work at St. Francis Hospital and as a mentor in the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Her interest in science and service has also shaped her future plans to study biology on a pre-med track, with the ultimate goal of becoming a doctor.

Among her favorite academic experiences at Oyster Bay High School were AP World History, AP Research and Science Olympiad. She credits AP World History with strengthening her writing, study habits and ability to consider different perspectives, while AP Research taught her how to manage an independent, long-term project. Science Olympiad gave her opportunities to explore scientific topics beyond the traditional classroom and collaborate with teammates to solve challenging problems.

Mia also credits her teachers, family and friends with helping her succeed. One educator who made a particularly lasting impression was band teacher Mr. Sisia, who taught her throughout all four years of high school.

"Beyond helping me grow as a musician, Mr. Sisia taught me the importance of dedication, collaboration and showing up every day ready to put in the effort," she said. "He creates an environment where everyone feels supported and motivated to do their best, both inside and outside the classroom."

While Mia's academic accomplishments are impressive, some of her fondest memories are of the traditions that bring the Oyster Bay school community together. She remembers elementary school Field Days as opportunities to cheer on classmates and enjoy time together outside the classroom. In high school, pep rallies became a favorite tradition, particularly the student lip-sync performances that brought different grades together to celebrate their school spirit.

Being named salutatorian stands out as Mia's proudest high school accomplishment, representing years of dedication, hard work and perseverance.

"Earning this honor meant a lot to me because it was the result of years of hard work, dedication and consistency," she said. "Seeing that effort pay off was incredibly rewarding and it proved to me what I am capable of achieving when I stay dedicated to my goals."

For younger students hoping to follow in her footsteps, Mia emphasizes the importance of balancing academic responsibilities with the experiences that make high school memorable. She encourages incoming freshmen to stay organized, challenge themselves academically and explore new interests while making time for friends and school activities.

As she prepares for the next chapter of her education, Mia hopes to carry forward one of the most important lessons she learned during her years at Oyster Bay.

"The most important lesson I learned at OBHS is the importance of kindness, community and supporting others," she said. "Success is not just about what you accomplish, but also about the positive impact you have on those around you."