Jaipreet Singh Garners Edna Van Wart Math Award

Jaipreet Singh seeks perfection in all of his academic pursuits and he comes awfully close to accomplishing that lofty goal. He would have been among the student favorites of Edna Van Wart, who worked as a Huntington High School mathematics teacher for 40 years.

Salutatorian of Huntington’s Class of 2026, Mr. Singh captured the Edna Van Wart Mathematics Award, presented annually to the high school’s top math student on the accelerated/advanced course level. The teenager plans to attend Rochester Institute of Technology in the fall. He plans to study mechanical engineering.

“The key to my success has been always striving to improve and learning from the challenges I face,” Mr. Singh said. “Determination and perseverance have helped me push through obstacles and continue working towards my goals. I am also grateful for the support of my family, teachers, and mentors who have encouraged and guided me along the way. I have most enjoyed the opportunities to challenge myself academically and grow as a student.”

Miss Van Wart graduated from Barnard College in 1919. She taught for three years prior to coming to Huntington and beginning her teaching career in the district in 1922. She was on the faculty for the next four decades before retiring in June 1962. She passed away November 20, 1980.

In 1955, Miss Van Wart became the high school’s first chair of the mathematics department. She also served as senior class advisor for 14 years. Huntington High School’s 1946 and 1962 yearbooks are dedicated to the longtime district teacher.

“We regret her retirement,” said Principal Robert A. Cushman in remarks republished on page 121 of the 1962 edition of the Huntingtonian yearbook. “Over the span of forty years, Miss Van Wart has taught skillfully and well thousands of Huntington students. Her warm friendliness, loyal devotion and superior work have inspired and helped generations of students and faculty. We give her our best wishes with the full appreciation in our hearts of the privilege of having known and worked with her. We honor a great teacher.”

“Being involved in the Huntington Blue Devil marching band and Huntington Robotics has been especially meaningful, allowing me to collaborate with others, solve problems and be part of dedicated teams, Mr. Singh said. “Most importantly, I have valued the friendships and connections I've built with my classmates, teachers, and mentors along the way.”

Captain of the marching band’s drumline and a member of multiple academic honor societies. Mr. Singh has been a leader with the robotics team for the past four years, serving as captain as a junior and senior. He’s also won several awards in the Science Olympiad.