Clinton CSD Announces Class of 2026 Valedictorian, Salutatorian

The Clinton Central School District is proud to announce the valedictorian and salutatorian of the Clinton High School Class of 2026.

Ella Brehaut, daughter of Laura and Scott Brehaut, has been named valedictorian. Throughout high school, she challenged herself with a rigorous academic schedule that included eight Advanced Placement courses as well as biology through the Syracuse University Project Advance program.

Outside of the classroom, Ella has been a dedicated member of the National Honor Society, serving as sergeant at arms. She has also been an active member of several athletic teams, including varsity basketball, varsity cross country, varsity track and field and varsity soccer. She has played piano since age five and she hopes to continue playing in the future.

Ella has earned several awards and accolades during her high school career, including College Board’s AP Scholar with Honor Award; the United States Air Force Recruiting Service Mathematics and Science Award for Outstanding Academic Achievement; and academic distinction awards in English, math and social studies. At Utica University’s Regional Science Fair, she received the Senior-Level Copernicus Award and third place for Senior-Level Physical Science.

In addition to her academic awards, Ella has also earned several recognitions for her athletic achievements. During her time participating in high school athletics, she has received the High Scorer Award for track and field, was part of the Center State Conference All-Star Team for track and field, was part of the Section III Champion team for the girls 4x800 relay, she received recognition for Outbreak Performance of the Year for cross country, and she received the Coaches Award for basketball.

Ella said that her biggest inspiration to succeed throughout high school was the love and support she received from her family. After graduation, she plans to attend Boston College’s Morrisey College of Arts and Sciences. She hopes to enter into a career where she can make a positive impact on the lives of many people.

Martin Amuso, son of Jessica Reynolds-Amuso and John Amuso, has been named salutatorian. Throughout his time at Clinton High School, he has managed a challenging course load that included nine AP classes, while also being involved in many sports and extracurricular activities.

Beyond academics, Martin has been an active member of numerous clubs, including Science Olympiad, Model UN, Astronomy Club, Chamber Choir, Jazz Band, National Honor Society and Tri-M Music Honor Society. He has also participated in high school musicals since eighth grade, he performs in the Memorial Day parade with the marching band and he has been a guest anchor for C-Town Live.

Martin has held several leadership positions throughout high school, including serving as president of Science Olympiad, the Class of 2026 and National Honor Society; vice president of Model UN and Astronomy Club; and secretary of Tri-M Music Honor Society.

Martin is also a well-rounded athlete, participating in varsity cross country, varsity soccer, varsity indoor track and field, varsity track and field, and varsity tennis. During his senior year, he had the opportunity to participate in all five sports. He currently holds the record for the boys 1500-meter race walk for indoor track.

Among his many accomplishments, Martin has also received the College Board National Recognition Program Outstanding Academic Achievement Award; academic distinction awards in social studies, Spanish and science; and he was the winner of the Optimist Club of Clinton’s essay contest in 2025.

When asked about his biggest inspiration to succeed, Martin said it was the idea that the work he puts in now could prepare him to help others in the future. He also credited the continual support and encouragement from his teachers, family and friends.

After graduating high school, Martin plans to attend Hamilton College. He has not yet declared a major, but his interests include history, Spanish and economics. He aspires to spend his life working to improve others’ lives through service.

"The Class of 2026 is fortunate to be represented by two students of such exceptional character and achievement,” said Superintendent of Schools Christopher Clancy. “Their accomplishment is a celebration not only of academic excellence, but of the dedication, resilience and leadership they have demonstrated throughout their time at Clinton Senior High School. We are incredibly proud of both of them."

Congratulations to Ella and Martin on these exceptional achievements, and best of luck in your future endeavors!