Thursday, October 1, 2026
Baldwin High School student Vallerie Reyes-Perez has been selected as a Junior Achievement New York Ambassador for the 2026-27 school year, earning a statewide honor that recognizes leadership, communication skills and a commitment to preparing young people for future careers.
The ambassador program selects students who have demonstrated active participation in Junior Achievement programs, leadership among their peers and the ability to serve as role models while promoting the organization's mission of workforce readiness, financial literacy and entrepreneurship.
As an ambassador, Vallerie will represent Junior Achievement New York at events and programs throughout the year, share her experiences with fellow students and help raise awareness of the organization's educational initiatives.
During the 2025-26 school year, Vallerie participated in a variety of Junior Achievement programs, working closely with Family and Consumer Sciences teacher Sam Billig and Gabriella Franza, the district's assistant director for instructional programs.
"The Baldwin Union Free School District proudly congratulates Vallerie on this remarkable achievement," Franza said in a release. "Her selection reflects both her individual accomplishments and Baldwin's ongoing commitment to providing students with meaningful School2Career experiences that prepare them for future success. The district looks forward to seeing Vallerie continue to grow as a leader and serve as an exemplary representative of Baldwin UFSD through this distinguished program."
Billig said Vallerie consistently demonstrated the qualities sought in the ambassador program.
"Vallerie has consistently demonstrated the leadership, professionalism and determination that this role requires," Billig said. "She approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and a genuine desire to learn, and I am confident she will be an outstanding representative for both Junior Achievement and Baldwin High School."
Junior Achievement is a nonprofit organization that provides students with hands-on learning experiences in financial literacy, career readiness and entrepreneurship through partnerships with educators, businesses and community leaders.
