Shayan Chatiwala has earned the title as Valedictorian of the class of 2026. This title reflects all of the hard work, missed sleep, and sincere effort he has put into his courses at Wayne Hills. Outside of the classroom, he shows his devotion to his community by being an active member of Wayne Hills community. From serving as President of National Honor Society to being captain of the tennis team, Chatiwala is a talented athlete, an intelligent student, and, most importantly, is abundant in character. To learn more about Chatiwala, an interview with him can be read below:

Q 1): What are some of the activities that you have done throughout high school and that are important to you?
A: I’m captain and #1 singles of the varsity tennis team, President of National Honor Society, Vice President of the AI Club, and Member of the Math Club.

Q 2): How do you balance everything you do and also maintain your GPA?
A: I try to get the majority of my work done in school, whether that be during lunch or if there’s free time during class, so that I have more time for my activities outside of school. Similarly, if I don’t have too much going on during the weekend, I’ll try to get ahead on my schoolwork so that I feel less pressure during the week. 

Q 3): What advice do you have for underclassmen at Wayne Hills?
A: I’d tell underclassmen to take this time to discover activities they enjoy. I strongly believe that many friends I’ve made and good habits I’ve developed come from activities I found/pursued in high school. 

Q 4): What advice do you have specifically for aspiring valedictorians or salutatorians?
A: Just try your best and keep working hard! And while school is important, it’s important to also find activities that challenge and excite you. 

Q 5): What classes or teachers did you enjoy? What classes would you recommend students at Wayne Hills take?
A: AP Gov with Mr. Shale – The class is fascinating and really useful, and Mr. Shale does an amazing job at explaining course material and driving interesting class discussions.
Calc with Mr. Green – Mr. Green is one of the most caring teachers I know. Evidenced by how frequently his room is open for students during lunch, he really makes sure that every student is understanding each topic.
Biology with Doc – Doc makes this class extremely fun and rewarding. There are few teachers who know their subject as well as he does.

Q 6): What plans do you have for the future?
A: I’ll be studying electrical and computer engineering at Duke. I want to eventually found my own tech startup.

Q 7): What words do you have for the people who helped support you on your high school journey?
A: I’m really grateful to my parents, brother, teachers, and coaches. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them!