The Pittston Area 2025-2026 Homecoming Queen and her Court with escorts were honored at halftime of the game against Wilkes-Barre Area at Charley Trippi Stadium on Friday, Oct. 3. From left: Jenna Zaladonis, Michael Barnette, Laila Cartagena, Jahiem Butler, Juliana Menendez (Queen), JD Gladish, Paige Bittman, Kyle Franchetti, Callie Shannon and TJ Rogers.
Courtesy of Angel Noone Photography
YATESVILLE — The Pittston Area Class of 2026 Homecoming Court was chosen on Sept. 24, with Juliana Menendez being chosen Queen on Friday, Oct. 3, at the school’s Pep Rally.
The Menendez and her Court were featured that evening during the home game versus Wilkes-Barre Area.
The 2025-2026 Homecoming Queen and court are:
Queen Juliana Menendez is the daughter of Alisa and Chris Menendez of Jenkins Township, chose JD Gladish as her escort.
“I feel genuinely grateful that my fellow classmates chose me to represent our senior class.
Menendez said. “I appreciate the opportunity to embrace our schools’ values and spirit alongside of some of the kindest and most supportive girls I know.”
Paige Bittmann, the daughter of Donna & Frank Bittmann of Pittston Township, was escorted by Kyle Franchetti.
“I feel very honored and grateful to be alongside such beautiful and kind women, and to represent the 2026 Senior Class,” Bittman said. “Never stop being you, you are perfect and unique just the way you are.”
Laila Cartagena is the daughter of Jasmin and Jose Cartagena of Duryea. She chose Jahiem Butler as her escort.
“Being on the court is not just an honor, but also an amazing opportunity shared with some of the most kind-hearted girls I know,” Cartagenia said. “Being able to represent friendship, kindness, and our senior class is something I will forever be grateful for.”
Callie Shannon is the daughter of Jeff & Melissa Shannon of Pittston. Her escort was TJ Rogers.
“Being on the homecoming court is such an honor because it represents more than just myself, it reflects friendship, school spirit, and the community I’ve been a part of my whole life,” Shannon stated. “What makes it more meaningful is getting to share it with such an amazing group of girls. Each one of them are kind, inspiring, and smart. I am grateful my classmates chose me to represent the court.”
Jenna Zaladonis, the daughter of Cheryl & James Zaladonis of Duryea, chose Michael Barnett as her escort.
Zaladonis remarked on her homecoming experience, “Just have fun with it.”
