Highland High School is proud to recognize Anastasios “Taso” Bakatsias as the recipient of the Principal’s Award for the Class of 2026, honoring his outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service.

A Highland student since Kindergarten, Taso has built an impressive record of success throughout his school career. Academically, he demonstrated exceptional dedication by completing 26 college-level courses while in high school, culminating in earning an associate’s degree in Liberal Arts, Math, and Science from SUNY Ulster.

Beyond the classroom, Taso has been deeply involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities and leadership roles. He served as president of the Spanish Honor Society, vice president of Model United Nations, logistics captain for Science Olympiad, and communications assistant for Mathletes. His leadership within Interact Club included serving as both treasurer and secretary, while he also held the role of treasurer for Ski Club for four years.

Taso’s commitment to serving others extends well beyond school grounds. He earned the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout for creating a watershed information kiosk project and was recognized with the Highland Rotary Club’s “Service Above Self” award for his dedication to community involvement.

An accomplished athlete, Taso participated in Winter and Spring Track and Field as well as Varsity Golf, where he proudly served as team captain during his senior year. Outside of school, he works at Foxx Pools during the summer and volunteers extensively through many of the organizations he supports.

Principal Brandon Opitz praised Taso’s many accomplishments and positive impact on the Highland school community.

“Taso is a highly involved student, dedicating his time to community service while maintaining strong academics,” said Opitz. “He is friendly, easygoing, and has built positive relationships with staff and peers. Taso balances many responsibilities with excellent organizational skills and serves as a reliable liaison with administration for school events and activities.”

This fall, Taso will attend Stony Brook University, where he plans to major in Spanish Language and Literature with the goal of becoming a Spanish teacher.

Highland High School congratulates Taso on this well-deserved recognition and wishes him continued success in the future.