Alexandra Gerbavsits would have fit into Huntington High School during any era of its existence. Her rah-rah attitude and enthusiasm for every aspect of school life from sports to clubs to classes with her friends keeps a spring in her step as she makes her way around the building.
From her first days as a Flower Hill School kindergartener, Ms. Gerbavsits has been a standout with her teachers and everyone else in the district. She has a big heart and a sensational sense of humor and she’s always ready to try something new.
“I have loved all aspects of Huntington High School,” Ms. Gerbavsits said. “Being involved in the athletic program has been my favorite part. I’ve loved playing soccer from JV with Coach [Maria] Canino to varsity with coaches [John] Walsh and [Vincent] Tannazzo. I played JV softball in seventh grade with Coach [Jim] Byrnes and I’ve been on varsity softball since eighth grade with Coach Walsh and Byrnes. Although we’ve had tough seasons we have a great team and always have fun. I am proud to be one of the varsity softball captains.”
Ms. Gerbavsits’ grandfather, Charlie Forte is one of the greatest athletes in the history of Huntington High School. A three-sport man, he went on to star at Wake Forest, before returning to Huntington and raising his family here. He continues to be a constant and visible presence around the district more than 60 years after his high school graduation.
The junior would like to follow in the footsteps of her sister, Lauren and pursue a career in nursing. She is already considering the University of Rhode Island, University of Central Florida, James Madison University and the University of Delaware.
Among Ms. Gerbavsits’ favorite teachers are Michael Graziano, Michael Schwendemann and Danielle Lusardi Raguzin.
“I really enjoyed having Alex in Chemistry last year and am so happy she decided to take AP Chem with me again this year,” Mrs. Raguzin said. “It’s a challenging course, but she’s the perfect mix of hardworking and intelligent! The course will provide her with a great foundation for college, where she hopes to study to become a nurse. Alex has continuously proven that she can achieve anything she puts her mind to. I look forward to this year ahead with her.”
The teenager’s closest friends include Cat Jamison, Cole Pillion, Izzy Toscano, Riva Bergman, Steli Vlahos and Emily Cheshire.
“I’ve known Alex since kindergarten and she hasn’t left my side since,” Ms. Jamison said. “She brightens everyone’s day that comes in contact with her and truly is one of the most amazing people I know.”
The teenager’s junior year academic schedule includes Advanced Placement Chemistry, Common Core Algebra 2 Regents, English 11 Regents, US History Regents, Italian IV Honors and Advanced Photography.
“Alex is my best friend and always knows how to put a smile on everyone’s face,” Ms. Bergman said. That seems to be a recurring theme when Ms. Gerbavsits’ classmates are asked about her. She has an uplifting personality and she brightens the day of everyone she crosses paths with.
President of Huntington High School’s Varsity Club, Ms. Gerbavsits works closely in the post with Georgia D. McCarthy, district director of health, physical education and interscholastic athletics. She volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and is seeking membership in the National Honor Society. During the mid-winter vacation she will be traveling to Italy with many of her classmates through EF Tours.
Without a doubt, Ms. Gerbavsits is one of Huntington High School’s most popular students. “Alex never fails to put a smile on my face both academically and personally,” Mr. Schwendemann said. “She always tries her best, both in the classroom and on the field of play. When she stops by my room to say hello she brightens my darkest days. She’s just terrific.”
