The New York State Public High School Athletic Association announced its 2017-18 Scholar-Athlete School of Distinction and School of Excellence Award winners.

The purpose of the School of Distinction and School of Excellence Awards are to unite varsity coaches in challenging their teams to achieve a statewide honor. This year’s figures represent the highest number of NYSPHSAA member schools being recognized for their academic achievements.

“The increase in the number of schools receiving both awards shows what fantastic student-athletes we have here in New York State,” said Robert Zayas, NYSPHSAA Executive Director. “This is evidence that schools, administration, coaches and student-athletes focus on excellence in the classroom as well as the playing fields.”

Schools can earn School of Distinction status by having 100 percent of its varsity teams qualify for and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award during their respective sports seasons. To earn the School of Excellence Award, 75 percent of a school’s varsity teams must qualify and receive the Scholar-Athlete team award.

Honorees from Suffolk include Babylon, John Glenn, Greenport, Miller Place, Port Jefferson, Northport, Rocky Point, Shelter Island, Smithtown East and The Stony Brook School.

NYSPHSAA’s Scholar-Athlete team award was initiated in 1991-92 school year. The School of Distinction Award was established in 2002-03 while the School of Excellence Award began in 2016-17. All awards are sponsored by Pupil Benefits Plan.

Suffolk schools earning “School of Excellence” distinction include Comsewogue, Hills East, Hills West, Hampton Bays, Harborfields, Islip, Kings Park, Longwood, Riverhead, Sayville, Smithtown West, and Whitman.