Whether it’s solving complex math problems or hitting the right notes on his trumpet, WHS senior Treyson Thelusma credits his success to facing fears and pushing beyond his comfort zone. “The more involved I became in school, the more of a shift I felt in myself and my abilities,” Treyson said. “I started to challenge myself more in 11th grade. I watched my friends doing things I thought were too risky. When I started to do more, it had a positive impact. That’s when I knew it was a step in the right direction.”
A lifelong student of the Greenburgh Central School District, Treyson has always been a strong student - a fact confirmed when he ranked among the top three students in the WHS Class of 2025. Curiosity drives his academic risk-taking, especially in the rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. “IB DP Theory of Knowledge made me more curious about the curriculum because it pushes you to ask “why” a lot more - why things work or to establish questions and reason. IB classes bring a new level of rigor, which helped me to grow and manage my skills,” he said. Math is one of Treyson’s favorite subjects. Under the guidance of Mr. Lepes, he’s learned to apply math to real-world situations. “I appreciate the way Mr. Lepes teaches math and applies it to the world through analysis and interpretation in real-world scenarios. I find math satisfying because the problem comes down to one solution and it’s fun to find creative ways to get to that place,” he said. In addition to pursuing an IB Diploma, Treyson is also working toward earning the New York State Seal of Biliteracy in Haitian-Creole and Spanish.
Beyond the classroom, Treyson is actively involved in school life. He plays trumpet in the WHS Jazz Band, participates in Key Club, Mandarin Heritage Club, and the Black Student Union, and serves as Editor-in-Chief of The Falcon, the school newspaper. “When Mr. Kennedy encouraged me to join the Jazz Band, I found that playing with better musicians made me a better musician,” he said. “Mr. Kennedy always believed in me, even when I wasn’t putting in the most effort. I express myself through the trumpet—it’s part of me, and it’s a skill I want to keep improving.” In the role of newspaper Editor, Treyson values teamwork and the process of creating something lasting. “I enjoy seeing how everyone’s work comes together in the school newspaper,” he said “It’s meaningful to be part of something that commemorates our high school years.”
Whether it’s inside or outside of school, Treyson’s family and friends have always been an essential source of support. “My parents and sister are very proud of me,” he said. “When I was in fifth grade my sister - who’s now a teacher - would have me do worksheets over the summer. I trusted her, she had a good plan. I now do it for myself because putting in the work feels rewarding.” Establishing close friendships, some lasting as long as kindergarten, has been another highlight for this senior. Looking back as he looks ahead, Treyson reflects on his experiences in Greenburgh. “The community is really supportive. If I had to do it all over again, I would do it the same.”
#WeAreGreenburgh