Elizabeth Bettencourt of Peabody Veterans Memorial High School: Student-Athlete of the Month for May 2026

The Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association is proud to announce Elizabeth Bettencourt of Peabody Veterans Memorial High School as the MIAA Student of the Month for May 2026.  Elizabeth truly embodies the definition of a student-athlete. A leader on the court, on the field, in the classroom, and throughout her community, she has left an indelible mark on Peabody High School. Her selection highlights her outstanding achievements across three core pillars:

Elizabeth is a powerhouse in Peabody athletics, serving as a four-year varsity member of three sports (volleyball, basketball, and softball) and a captain for all three programs. A four-year starter in volleyball and softball (and three-year starter in basketball), she has been named Team MVP for both softball and volleyball. Known by her coaches as a fierce competitor and the ultimate team player, Elizabeth also competes at the highest level regionally and nationally with the MGA Volleyball Club and Polar Crush Softball Club. She will be continuing her elite academic and athletic career at Bates College.

Elizabeth’s dedication to her studies is reflected in her remarkable achievement as the Class of 2026 Salutatorian. Beyond maintaining her top-tier grades, she consistently challenges herself and sharpens her intellect through academic extracurriculars. Elizabeth is a key member of the Math Team, a two-time state qualifier for DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), and an active participant in Model UN, where she researches foreign policy and sharpens her public speaking and debate skills.

Elizabeth’s impact extends far beyond sports and academics; she is deeply committed to lifting up those around her. Her service and mentorship efforts include:

• Youth Mentorship & Coaching: She shares her passion for sports by coaching and mentoring young athletes at local Youth Volleyball and Softball Clinics, while averaging over 4 hours a week tutoring elementary and high school peers.
• Philanthropy: As a volunteer with the non-profit Uniting Borders, she helps coordinate school-wide clothing drives for those in need. She also raised over $1,000 for cancer research through the A Shot For Life home run derby.
• School Culture & Inclusion: Elizabeth works to ensure a positive school climate through the Save Promise Club, Peer Mediation (where she helps resolve student conflicts and certifies underclassmen), and Transitional Partners, helping incoming students successfully navigate the shift from middle to high school.

"Elizabeth is an absolute joy to coach," says her coaching staff. "She is a team player who will do whatever it takes to make those around her better."

The MIAA congratulates Elizabeth Bettencourt, her family, and the entire Peabody community on this well-deserved honor.