Brayden Kohler, the valedictorian for the Class of 2019 at Silverstein Hebrew Academy’s middle school, earned the highest grade point average (GPA) of the 2019 graduating class. Brayden’s academic success, however, represents just a fraction of his contributions to his school. His involvement within the school community has set an example for future students to follow.
Brayden took the podium at the 2019 Silverstein Hebrew Academy Middle School commencement ceremony while his family, teachers and peers cheered him on.
“I feel that I have accomplished a lot at SHA which has enabled me to develop my leadership skills and grow academically,” said Brayden. “I truly believe that the foundation I have received at Silverstein has provided me with tools to transition to the academic rigor and be ready to take on greater responsibility in high school.”
Brayden will be attending Ramaz Upper School in Manhattan in the fall.
In elementary school, Brayden was involved in the science club. He then joined the Math Olympiad team as well as the Torah Bowl team in middle school. Brayden has earned multiple awards as a result of performing in the top 10% of over 120,000 students competing internationally in the Math Olympiads. At this year’s Torah Bowl, won by SHA in the Long Island and Queens division, Brayden was named the MVP for competing Yeshiva teams answering a record breaking amount of answers correctly.
Throughout his middle school years, Brayden has consistently given back to the community by contributing numerous hours to community service for which he was recognized for this year by the Rotary Club of Great Neck. He has demonstrated “an exemplary level of community service, as determined by SHA Head of School, Shireen Deen-Butman.” Brayden’s contributions have consisted of working with seniors, helping with food collection for the needy, leading his peers in various school activities, and tutoring younger students.
SHA Head of School Shireen Deen-Butman noted, “Brayden has been an extraordinary student, and an even more extraordinary young man, a true mensch. He represents the core values that we strive to teach and instill in our students every day. Brayden will take with him a love of learning, and a strong foundation, both in general studies and Judaic studies. His passion for Judaism is palpable and an example for us all. We are looking forward to hearing about all of Brayden’s wonderful achievements as he sets out on the next stage of his life.”
Submitted by Silverstein Hebrew Academy.
