East Rockaway High School proudly announces that senior Angelica Garcia has been selected as a 2026 Long Island Scholar-Artist by the Long Island Arts Alliance and Newsday. Angelica is one of only 40 students across Nassau and Suffolk counties to receive this honor, which recognizes exceptional achievement in both academics and the arts.

Chosen in the Media Arts category, Angelica is primarily a photographer, though she has long explored a variety of creative mediums. She credits photography with teaching her “to see the hidden beauty in things that often go overlooked, which has made me appreciate my surroundings more.”

Her work has earned numerous accolades, including an honorable mention in the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards and recognition as a Distinguished Artist in the NYSATA Portfolio Project. She has exhibited at the Photographic Society of America, Art in the Heart and the Long Island Media Showcase.

Angelica’s talents extend beyond the arts. She has earned academic awards in legal studies, received a scholarship from St. Bonaventure University and has volunteered for three years at Camp Anchor, supporting children and adults with special needs —particularly in the camp’s arts and crafts program.

The Long Island Arts Alliance and Newsday will profile each Scholar-Artist in monthly features throughout the school year and will celebrate all honorees at a spring awards ceremony.

East Rockaway is proud of Angelica’s accomplishments and looks forward to seeing where her creativity and dedication take her next.