Clarence Named NYSPHSAA School of Distinction for Fourth Consecutive Year

Clarence High School was named a School of Distinction by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association Inc. for a fourth consecutive year, highlighting the success of student-athletes in their academics.

Schools can apply for School of Distinction status by having all of its varsity teams qualify for and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award during their respective sports seasons, reflecting the average GPA of the top 75 percent of the roster was greater than or equal to 90.00.

“This award represents far more than success on the scoreboard. It reflects the exceptional discipline, time management, and dedication of our student-athletes, who balance rigorous academic schedules, daily practices, and competitions without ever losing sight of their primary mission in the classroom,” said Jason Lehmbeck, Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics for the Clarence Central School District. 

The academic success for Clarence’s student-athletes is in addition to success found in competition, with Clarence amassing nine Section VI titles in the 2025-26 school year.

For the 2025-2026 school year, 118 schools earned the School of Distinction Award, while 237 schools earned the School of Excellence Award.

"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."