The New York State Public High School Athletic Association, Inc. (NYSPHSAA) announced Mayfield Central School District as a 2025-2026 School of Distinction. This award recognizes the district for demonstrating exceptional commitment to academic achievement by having 100 percent of our varsity teams earn NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete Team recognition during their respective sports seasons. This is Mayfield’s second year in a row being honored as a School of Distinction.

The purpose of the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards is to unite athletic departments in challenging every varsity team to achieve statewide academic recognition through the NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete program. Schools qualify for the School of Distinction Award by having 100 percent of their varsity teams earn NYSPHSAA Scholar-Athlete Team recognition during their respective sports seasons. To earn the School of Excellence Award, 75 percent or more of a school’s varsity teams must achieve Scholar-Athlete Team status.

“The commitment demonstrated by our member schools to academic excellence continues to be one of the greatest strengths of educational-based athletics,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “These awards recognize entire school communities that value success in the classroom as much as success in competition.” 

Mayfield athletic director proudly accepted the award from NYSPHSAA and gave kudos to both the student athletes and coaches on this incredible achievement.

“This award is a real testament to our student athletes and their dedication to academics,” said Caraco. “Being a varsity athlete requires a significant time commitment, and we have a wonderful group of young people who have learned to manage their time well, keeping their grades high while giving their all to their teams. Our coaches also deserve a lot of credit for consistently keeping our student-athletes focused on what matters most.”