Mackenzie Madison feels at home in a classroom. The Huntington High School senior has been fortunate to have had several exceptional role models over the years who have inspired her to pursue a career as an elementary school teacher.
Ms. Madison is headed to SUNY College at Cortland in the fall where she intends to begin laying the groundwork to chase after her dreams of working with children in a classroom setting.
The teenager got her start in Huntington UFSD as a kindergartener at Washington Primary School. Since then she has enjoyed a wonderful experience.
“This year I am taking Advanced Placement Environmental Science with Ms. [Nicole] Cooper which has been one of my favorite classes so far,” Ms. Madison said. “I find the topics we discuss very important and recommend this class to other students. I am also interning with Mrs. [Victoria] Geier for AP English Language and Composition, although she is out on maternity leave. I have been working with Ms. [Nicole] Dubois-Grabkowitz and it’s been a great experience.”
Ms. Madison is on the staff of the Huntingtonian, the high school’s yearbook. She has been working with faculty advisors Elizabeth Casazza and Kristin Fortunato. “Although this year is not like others, the yearbook has been coming along great,” she said.
The teenager has been inducted into the Huntington chapter of the National Honor Society, English Honor Society, Science Honor Society, Social Studies Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society and Math Honor Society, for which she serves as the fundraising coordinator.
“I have made many wonderful friendships over the years,” Ms. Madison said. “My two closest friends are Gracie Renkewitz and Katie Renkewitz. We have been best friends since second grade! Also, Hallie Armengau and I have been friends since tenth grade and we will be going to Cortland together.”
Ms. Madison is easy to get along with and that’s made her popular with classmates and faculty members.
“All the teachers at Huntington High School are beyond supportive of the students,” Ms. Madison said. “One teacher specifically who has been a great role model is Mrs. Morell, who was my tenth grade English teacher. She has always inspired me to do my best. Other amazing teachers who I’ve had are Mrs. [Victoria] Geier, Mrs. [Paige] Tyree. Señora [Elizabeth] Casazza, Mr. [Fred] Bisogno, Mr. [Anthony] Troffa, Mrs. [Danielle] Raguzin, Ms. [Elizabeth] Vogelsang, Mrs. [Kelly] Quintero, Mr. [Matthew] Liguori, Mr. [Joseph] Cohen and Mrs. [Joann] Ferazi.
The senior’s advice to incoming ninth graders? “Time at Huntington High School goes by so fast so take full advantage of all the amazing clubs and activities by getting involved,” Ms. Madison said.
The teenager recently committed to attending SUNY College at Cortland. “I plan to major in early childhood education and possibly minor in psychology,” Ms. Madison said. “I have always loved working with children and I can’t wait to one day have a classroom of my own. My teachers have always been amazing role models and have inspired me to want to become a teacher as well.”
As graduation draws near, Ms. Madison took a moment to reflect on her life. “My experience at Huntington High School has been one that I will truly never forget,” she said. “I appreciate all of the special bonds and amazing teachers and staff I have met along the way. Although, I am extremely upset to be leaving, I know that Huntington High School will always have a special place in my heart.”
