Claire Van Valkenburgh, a dedicated parent of the Highland Central School District (HCSD), has received the Ulster County School Boards Association (UCSBA) Distinguished Friend of Education Award. The annual award recognizes residents from the county’s school districts and Ulster BOCES for their dedication and commitment to students and schools.

HCSD Superintendent Joel Freer presented the award to Van Valkenburgh at the UCSBA’s annual dinner on May 26 at the Best Western in Kingston.

Van Valkenburgh has been a go-to parent over the years in all three of Highland’s school buildings. Her children are currently high school students, but throughout their education–from Kindergarten to the present day–Van Valkenburgh has been there working behind the scenes as a quiet, steady force-of-good, always focused on enriching the lives of students. 

She took over as president of the High School PTSA and reinvigorated the organization during the difficult COVID years, bringing new energy and a level of accountability that has helped the organization thrive. She is a strong collaborator who is approachable and whose sole agenda is putting “students first.” 

Van Valkenburgh works as a teacher in a neighboring district, and her support of public education is well known in the community. She is often the voice of reason when others are quick to judge District decisions. HCSD has benefited from her leadership in the PTSA. and students have benefited from her tireless involvement in school functions. 

Krista Barringer, president of the Ulster County School Boards Association, is full of  praise for this year’s honorees. “This annual event highlights the amazing people who go above and beyond for the students and families in Ulster County school districts,” she said. “This year is no different. Every year, the awardees leave inspired and amazed by each other. They are a tremendous group that deserves every bit of recognition.”