Peekskill City School District

Meet Peekskill High School's

Class of 2025 

Valedictorian & Salutatorian

Congratulations to Class of 2025 Valedictorian Mireya Rodriguez Ortega and Salutatorian Jemell Acosta! 

Peekskill City School District and Peekskill High School are proud to introduce the Class of 2025 Valedictorian Mireya Rodriguez Ortega and Salutatorian Jemell Acosta. These students have shown us how hard work, focus and dedication can result in success. As they prepare for college, Miss Rodriguez Ortega and Miss Acosta share a little bit about who they are and what their future holds for them after graduation.

During her time at PHS, Miss Rodriguez Ortega has been actively involved in various programs ranging from the String Orchestra to Concert Choir. She is a member of the Yearbook Club and of the Astronomy Club, as well as treasurer for the National Honor Society and the National English Honor Society. Outside of school, Miss Rodriguez Ortega volunteers for Neighbors Link as an assistant to immigration attorneys.

After high school, Miss Rodriguez Ortega plans to attend Rochester Institute of Technology where she will major in Physics and later obtain a Master’s degree in Astrophysical Sciences. Her goal is to become an astrophysicist, and to obtain a doctorate in Astrophysics so that she can pursue research on habitable exoplanets and dark matter. Inspired by stargazing with her father, Miss Rodriguez Ortega has been fascinated by outer space since a young age.

“I have always had a desire to learn and understand the unknown, and there is nothing more full of secrets than the universe,” said Rodriguez Ortega.

PCSD: What was your favorite class this year and what did you enjoy most about it?
Rodriguez Ortega: Taking an astronomy class during my senior year of high school solidified my goal of becoming an astrophysicist. One assignment that stood out to me was an essay we had to write on whether we believe the Apollo 11 lunar landing was real, or a hoax. I am intrigued by the mystery of the universe.

PCSD: What do you think it takes to make an exceptional teacher?
Rodriguez Ortega: I think to be an exceptional teacher, you also have to be willing to learn. Every student learns differently and at their own pace. I think it is very important for a teacher to be passionate and willing to get to know their students to make the classroom feel like a safe place. One teacher who I will always remember is Ms. Mannion. She is genuinely such a kind soul and the sweetest teacher I’ve ever met. I was always happy to enter her class. I would also like to recognize Mr. Barone. His chemistry class prioritized productivity, but he also took into consideration students’ mental health. I would like to thank them both for showing genuine interest in the lives they impact.

PCSD: What is your philosophy as a student?
Rodriguez Ortega: My philosophy as a student is to work towards what makes you happy, not just what will impress others. It is impossible to please everyone, so don’t beat yourself up over not being perfect. If you have a goal in mind, do what it takes to achieve it no matter what criticisms you receive, because at the end of the day, it’s your life.

What words of wisdom would you like to pass on to your PHS underclassmen?
Don’t waste your time trying to be “cool”. The more you try to change yourself for others, the more lonely you will feel. High school is supposed to be fun to get out there and make memories. Join clubs, sports, be nice and say “hi” to strangers. If you give off a positive attitude that is genuinely you, the people that stick around will be genuine too.

PCSD: What inspires you?
Rodriguez Ortega: I am inspired by my mom. She came to this country very young in search of job opportunities to not only establish a life for herself, but for her family, current and in the future. Her determination and selflessness inspires me to work hard so that I can provide for those who truly need it.

PCSD: What will you miss most about PHS?
Rodriguez Ortega: What I’m going to miss the most about PHS is the memories I have made over the years. From having philosophical conversations with my friends at lunch or cracking jokes while working on a lab assignment, I have met so many meaningful people at this school.

2025 Salutatorian: Jemell Acosta

In her time at PHS, Miss Jemell Acosta has participated in numerous organizations at school. She has dedicated time to the Science National Honor Society, serving previously as the club’s Vice President and now as the current President. Jemell is also the President of the Sociedad Honoraria Hispanica, where she earned a scholarship of recognition for her chapter. She is also an active member in other organizations such as the National Honor Society, yearbook club, and Varsity Cheerleading Captain, just to name a few. Beyond that, during  her underclassman years, Miss Acosta was an active member in the Orchestra, serving as President and Concertmaster, Vocal Forte member, and supporting roles in spring musicals.

After graduation, Jemell will attend  Wesleyan University where she plans to major in Chemistry as an aspiring cosmetic chemist. She hopes to spend her college years studying abroad, enjoying new cuisines, and making new friends and memories.

PCSD: What was your favorite class this year and what did you enjoy most about it?
Acosta: My favorite class this year was AP Spanish Literature. I love reading in general, so expanding my tastes to Spanish literature of various genres was quite refreshing! Consequently, I’ve learned Latin phrases and expanded my vocabulary in Spanish to better express myself like I do in English Literature. I enjoyed this class the most because it explored themes of life/death, social inequalities, and Hispanic feminism, fostering a curious ambiance in the classroom.

PCSD: What do you think it takes to make an exceptional teacher?
Acosta: Exceptional teachers, in my opinion, embody qualities like empathy and a genuine passion for their subject matter. At PHS, I have been fortunate to encounter two teachers who have shown me what enthusiasm can have for learning: Mrs. Erum Hadi from the Peekskill Science Research program and Mrs. Daisi Suero, my AP Spanish teacher. Ms. Hadi’s unwavering support and encouragement have been pivotal in my journey. The passion she brings to scientific inquiry has inspired me to seek knowledge beyond the classroom, leading to incredible experiences during my summers and years in PSR. Without her guidance, I wouldn’t have had the same transformative opportunities to explore and grow.

Similarly, Ms. Suero’s eloquence in Spanish not only enriched my language skills, but also invited me to engage deeply with the social themes present in literature. Her passion for teaching fosters an environment where I can reflect on important life aspects and draw inspiration from the coming-of-age narratives we study.

PCSD: What is your philosophy as a student?
Acosta: Throughout high school, I have picked up the philosophy of “Work hard, play hard.” It is a maxim that fuels my dedication and enthusiasm. There is something irrefutable about using my free time to study and reaping what I have sown. But at the same time, it is also essential to remind me that though discipline brings us to heights of greatness, it is balance that enriches our lives; it is also about experiencing life and happiness in mundane things.

PCSD: What inspires you?
Acosta: The unwavering support of my mother inspires me to dream high and accomplish my goals. Her daunting journey to the U.S. at the age of 15 shows the sacrifice she has made for her family back home. Her winning war against single parenthood of two children shows her sheer will and determination. Her steady mindset I wish to adopt and the years of experience she holds in her hand I wish to gain. Carmen Hernandez is my icon.

PCSD: What words of wisdom would you like to pass on to your PHS underclassmen?
Acosta: Comparison is the thief of joy. Cherish your accomplishments, no matter their size, because they represent your unique journey. Your hard work has led you to where you are today, and that deserves celebration. Remember, success is subjective; everyone has their own vision and path to follow. Embrace your achievements and stay focused on your own growth, because your story is one of a kind.

PCSD: What will you miss most about PHS?
Acosta: As I look back, I’ll fondly remember the lively lunch conversations, the laughter sparked by a single remark, and those thrilling late Friday night games. Most of all, I’ll miss the inclusivity of Peekskill and the incredible talent of its students. Each memory is a reminder of the special bonds we’ve formed along the way.