Cape seniors named Secretary of Education Scholars

Cape High seniors Ashley Carrier, Sophia Chilelli, Morgan Newcomb were among 93 Delaware public school students recognized by Secretary of Education Mark Holodick as Secretary of Education Scholars. 

The student members of the class of 2024, joined by their families and school leaders, were honored during an April 16 dinner in Dover, where Holodick said the recognition is one of the highest academic achievements a student can earn in a Delaware public school.   

“Every scholar here has achieved incredible success in and out of the classroom, ranging from extraordinary accomplishments on school athletic teams to community service and school leadership positions,” Holodick said. “These students balance all of these demands of their time and still are able to study and excel academically.

Ashley, daughter of Samantha and Christopher Carrier of Milton, is a model student-athlete who has a current weighted grade point average of 4.170. She has received track and field awards for determination, dedication, drive and desire. 

In 2022, Ashley attended Governor's School for Excellence. She is the Student Government class treasurer and was recognized as Academic All-Conference Scholar Athlete. Ashley plans to attend DeSales University and major in medical studies.

Sophia, daughter of Edith and Victor Chilelli of Lewes, has a current weighted grade point average of 4.179. Sophia is board director for Leo Club, associate editor for Viking Ventures newspaper, and president of Best Buddies. 

In 2023, she was recognized as a Carson Scholar and attended Delaware Governor's School of Excellence. Sophia plans to major in international relations and political science.

Morgan, daughter of Kathlyn and Mike Newcomb of Milton, has been recognized as an AP Scholar with Distinction. As an active member of BPA, DECA and Leo Club, her leadership skills are evident in her role as BPA vice president.

A first team all-state and all-region field hockey goalie, Morgan plans to attend Georgetown University as an international business major.

The state has named Secretary of Education Scholars every year since 1984. The number of scholars from each school is based on enrollment. Principals select students based on academic records and community service.