As the school year comes to an end, it is time to recognize some especially dedicated Morris Hills Students. Among them is Morris Hills Class of 2026 Valedictorian Florence So. Florence is a member of the Math and Science Magnet Program here at Morris Hills. As an 8th grader, Florence applied to both the Magnet Program and the Academy for Math, Science & Engineering, as she was passionate about STEM and eager for a challenge. After getting admitted to both programs, she decided to choose the Magnet Program as it gave her greater flexibility while she considered whether she wanted to pursue engineering.
As a student at Morris Hills, Florence has made some significant contributions. She stayed involved within the school community primarily through being a part of the Morris Hills Fencing Team. “The upperclassmen were very fun and supportive”, she mentioned, which allowed her to find comfort within the sport. Over the years, she took on roles as a Varsity fencer and as Captain of the Women’s Epee Team, helping to secure the school’s first-ever Sectional Champion title and State Finals appearance this year. Outside of school, Florence enjoys spending her time on her hobbies, including knitting, playing the piano, and walking with her sisters around the lake.
As a student, Florence also made important connections with those around her. She credits the Morris Hills community for helping her succeed. “There are so many wonderful teachers and staff who have helped me greatly over the years and made learning enjoyable”, she said. Florence has been a highly motivated and ambitious student. Florence believes that when given the opportunity, she aspires to “do the hardest thing that I am capable of”, and this motivation was instrumental to her success at Morris Hills. She also mentioned how much she values the friendships she has made over the past four years.
However, like many other high schoolers, Florence did face some challenges. “Splitting my time between studying, recreational goals, and spending time with my family was a constant balancing act”, she admits. She found that considering her priorities and managing her time wisely was an important part of navigating this.
In the fall, Florence will be attending Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, where she plans to major in Mathematics and Physics. Her greatest piece of advice for students at Morris Hills is simple but important: to continue to spend time outside and take a walk when the weather is nice.