Highland High School was six Section 9 schools to be named a Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction by the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.

Marlboro High School was named a School of Excellence.

According to the NYSPHSAA the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards are designed to unite coaches in challenging their teams to achieve statewide academic honors. Eighty-six schools have earned the Distinction Award and 148 schools earned the Excellence Award.

“The School of Excellence and School of Distinction Awards highlight the best student-athletes in New York State,” NYSPHSAA Executive Director Robert Zayas said. “For 234 member schools to be honored for their commitment to academics as well as athletics is a testament to the outstanding leadership and student-athletes we have in this state.”

All 25 of Highland’s varsity sports teams have earned scholar-athlete team status.

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.

Marlboro had 20 sports teams earn Scholar-Athlete honors, coming in over the 75 percent requirement for a school to earn the Excellence Award.

Highland will be presented a certificate and a commemorative award at their local athletic director workshop this fall. Marlboro will be awarded a plaque at their local athletic director workshop.