Clarence High School Receives Second Consecutive NYSPHSAA School of Distinction Honor

The success of student-athletes in the classroom was recognized as Clarence High School was named a School of Distinction for the second year in a row by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Inc.

Schools can apply for School of Distinction status if 100 percent of their varsity teams qualify for and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award during their respective sports seasons, reflecting an average GPA of the top 75 percent of the team’s roster being greater than or equal to 90.00.

“This recognition is very telling of the hard work, character and commitment of our student-athletes, coaches, staff and parents,” said Jason Lehmbeck, director of health, physical education and athletics for the Clarence Central School District. “We are very lucky to work with these kids!”

A total of 114 schools across New York received the honor, up from 84 the previous year.

“The efforts made by student-athletes in the classroom are paramount to their success in the athletic arena, and beyond their high school days,” said Dr. Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director, in a news release announcing the selections. “We are proud of those who put in the work as ‘student’ and ‘athlete’, as well as the growth in both of School of Excellence and Distinction recognition.”

The academic success of Clarence’s student-athletes was combined with the success of the district’s athletes and teams on the playing field. A total of 13 Section VI titles were won by Clarence athletes and teams during the 2023-24 school year. The district was also recognized with the ECIC School Sportsmanship Award.