Walton Central School’s Class of 2026 valedictorian Eli Williams, and teacher Theresa Bolton, were honored earlier this week at the annual Scholar Recognition program banquet at SUNY Oneonta.
The event recognizes students and teachers from schools in the DCMO BOCES and ONC BOCES districts.
One student from each school is recognized for outstanding scholastic achievement and, in turn, that student nominates a teacher who has had a significant and beneficial influence on their education.
Below are the profiles included in the program. Williams’ is written by Bolton and, in turn, Williams wrote about Bolton.
Eli Williams
Eli is one of those rare and special students who is thoughtful, hard-working and fully committed to his education and to his musical craft. Eli has been involved with the school’s music program since his early elementary school days. From the beginning, his talent was evident, and as time went on, he continued to show his dedication to improve and evolve as a musician. In addition to being an accomplished pianist, Eli also plays tenor saxophone and violin and has been a long-time member of the band, orchestra, and choral programs. He has also been involved in select chorus, community Christmas shows, many All-County Festivals, Area All-State Festivals, and NYSSMA Solo Festivals, working his way up to Level VI solos. He has participated in many HS musicals, often playing lead roles, as well as receiving lead roles in many musicals put on by local theatre groups, including Orpheus Theatre and Tri-Town Theatre. Eli has also dabbled in composition, writing pieces for the piano and arranging and performing band compositions. From the beginning, Eli has been nothing but a positive role model for his peers and a positive influence on his school music program. He has become a magnificent young man who has learned and understands the importance of a sound education, the importance of respect and true friendship.
Theresa Bolton
“Did you practice this week” and “Are you tryin’ to kill me” are just a few phrases I’ve heard from Miss Bolton over the past decade. However, her words also inspired an 8-year-old boy and fostered his lifelong passion for music. As an elementary music teacher, she always made class fun and guided me through piano lessons and the locally acclaimed select chorus. More than a teacher, Bolton’s a mentor, friend, and source of unwavering support; kind, funny, and driven. Her love for her students has left an irreplaceable legacy, impacting countless lives, including mine, for which I’m endlessly grateful.
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