As graduation approaches, Calabasas High School’s Senior Awards Ceremony celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026. Held in the PAEC on Monday, June 1 at 6 p.m., the event recognized students for academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, career technical education achievements, and scholarship awards, celebrating the hard work and dedication of this year’s graduating class. The ceremony brought together students, families, teachers, and administrators to honor the accomplishments of seniors who have made a lasting impact on the CHS community throughout their four years of high school.
Among the evening’s most prestigious honors were the valedictorian recognitions. Two of those seniors, Cami Cohen and Arielle Berkovich, reflected on the support and determination that helped them reach this milestone. Cohen, who was also recognized as an AP Capstone recipient, credited her family for helping her achieve success and motivating her throughout high school. Looking back on her freshman year, Cohen said she never expected to become a valedictorian. The hard work she invested in academics over the past four years ultimately paid off, allowing her to graduate among the top students in her class.
“My mom, dad, sister, and brother were my biggest supporters. They were always pushing me to try my hardest and get the best grades,” Cohen said.
“I think freshman me would have never believed it. I always knew I was smart and determined, but I never realized I would be one of a small select number to be valedictorian. It feels really good, and I think younger me would be very proud,” Cohen said.
Berkovich, who was also recognized with Biliteracy in Spanish and honors through the California Scholarship Federation, emphasized the role her family and teachers played throughout high school. She explained that their support helped her stay motivated and focused on her goals, even during challenging moments. For Berkovich, the honor represented years of dedication and perseverance. She said becoming a valedictorian was a goal she had worked toward since childhood, making the recognition especially meaningful as she prepares to graduate.
“My parents supported me a lot throughout high school and always made sure I was doing well in school. My teachers also helped a lot, especially Mrs. Cook. She always pushed me when I wasn’t doing so well in a class and helped me keep going,” Berkovich said.
“I feel very accomplished because I know this is what I wanted since I was very young. I always worked hard to get good grades, and I think if my freshman self were looking at my senior self, she’d be pretty proud,” Berkovich said.
The ceremony also recognized students who excelled in specific academic fields. Among them was Keira Ebner, who earned both the Excellence Award in Science and the Excellence Award in Math. Ebner plans to study Biological Engineering and possibly Electrical Engineering and Computer Science in college, with the long-term goal of developing medical devices that improve people’s lives. Her achievements reflect not only academic excellence but also a commitment to using science and technology to make a positive impact on others. Of all the honors she received, the Math and Science Department awards were especially meaningful because they reflected recognition from the teachers who had supported her educational journey.
“The only thing I know for sure is that I want the things I create to help people,” Ebner said.
“It means so much to me to have my teachers think of me as a woman worthy of earning both of our school’s STEM awards. A major reason I brought back the Girls Who Code club at our school is that I want girls to feel confident pursuing careers in STEM,” Ebner said.
Ebner also encouraged younger students to pursue the subjects they are passionate about and not allow stereotypes to discourage them from entering traditionally male-dominated fields. Her message reflected a broader theme of the evening, as many award recipients emphasized the importance of perseverance, confidence, and following personal interests when working toward long-term goals.
Beyond academics, the ceremony highlighted students who demonstrated leadership and service through school and community programs. Students were also recognized for completing Career Technical Education pathways in areas such as Sports Medicine, Robotics, Broadcasting, Culinary Arts, and Arts, Media, and Entertainment. These programs allow students to gain hands-on experience and develop career-ready skills while still in high school, preparing them for future educational and professional opportunities.
The event additionally honored students who earned the State Seal of Civic Engagement and the State Seal of Biliteracy, recognizing commitment to community involvement and multilingual achievement. These distinctions celebrate students who have gone beyond classroom requirements by making meaningful contributions to their communities and developing valuable communication skills that will benefit them in college and future careers.
A major focus of the evening was the presentation of scholarships. Seniors received awards from community organizations and foundations, including the City of Calabasas, the Calabasas Chamber of Commerce, the Foundation for Las Virgenes Schools, the Rotary Club of Calabasas, the Horizons of Calabasas Scholarship Program, the Kevin Cordasco Something Yellow Foundation, and the Woodland Hills Woman’s Club. These scholarships recognized achievement in academics, athletics, music, leadership, service, and perseverance while supporting students as they pursue their educational goals. The awards highlighted the strong connection between CHS and the surrounding community, which continues to invest in students and their futures.
Throughout the ceremony, students repeatedly emphasized the importance of the people who supported them along the way. Whether thanking parents, teachers, mentors, or friends, many credited their success to the encouragement they received throughout high school. As the Class of 2026 prepares to graduate, the Senior Awards Ceremony served as a celebration of both individual achievement and community support. From valedictorians and STEM leaders to scholarship recipients and student advocates, this year’s seniors leave behind a legacy of achievement, leadership, and service that will continue to inspire future CHS students.
