Valedictorian Brooklyn Olschewske
Propelled by discipline, hard-work, and encouragement from family and friends, Brooklyn Olschewske earned her way to the top of the John C. Birdlebough Class of 2025.
The multisport athlete and accomplished student will take that work ethic with her to St. John Fisher University in the fall, where she will play soccer and pursue a degree in nursing.
“I want to major in nursing because I believe that I can make a meaningful difference in the health and well-being of others,” Olschewske said. “Eventually, I want to earn my master’s degree and become a nurse practitioner, with a special interest in labor and delivery.”
Throughout high school, Olschewske has been actively involved in numerous extracurricular activities including soccer, basketball, track and field, the National Honor Society, tutoring, and community service.
Olschewske noted that the Phoenix Central School District played a critical role in preparing her for the future.
“PCSD shaped me by instilling a strong work ethic, providing growth opportunities, and surrounding me with supportive teachers and friends,” she said.
Brooklyn, the daughter of Jerry and Laurie Olschewske, wanted to provide her classmates with words of encouragement as they move on to the next chapter of their journey.
“Work hard, be kind, and treat others the way you want to be treated,” she said.
Salutatorian Conner Klock
The Phoenix Central School District is proud to announce Conner Klock as the Class of 2025 salutatorian at John C. Birdlebough High School.
Klock has demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and involvement throughout his high school career. He will attend Clarkson University in the fall, where he plans to study civil engineering with the goal of becoming a structural engineer.
“I am interested in design and construction,” he said, noting that he is fueled by a sense of ambition and accomplishment.
A well-rounded student and leader, Klock has participated in a wide range of activities, including Tri-M Honor Society, jazz band, cross country, track & field, swimming & diving, DECA, Envirothon, All-County Band, Area All-State Band, National Honor Society, and has also served as class president.
Klock attributes his success to the encouragement of his parents, Gregory and Tricia Klock, who supported him in all his endeavors.
Reflecting on his time in the Phoenix Central School District, he said, “The small size allowed me to make more connections with individuals that allowed me to grow.”
As graduation approaches, Klock stressed the importances of seeing projects through to the finish line and he encouraged his classmates to never give up.