BCS Announces Valedictorians and Salutatorian
Submitted by the Berlin Central School District
The graduating class for 2020 has been through many unique challenges this year, so it seems fitting that there should be another unique development when it comes to announcing the top two academic awards, of Valedictorian and Salutatorian, because this year there are three.
For the first time, at least in recent memory, there is a tie for the title of Valedictorian. The honors this year go to Jackson Flowers of Grafton and Katherine Lockett of Petersburgh.
Salutatorian is Selena Bierwirth, also of Petersburgh.
Jackson Flowers
The District describes Jackson as outgoing, intelligent, and unafraid to take risks in his endeavors. This year, Jackson was accepted into the Questar III BOCES New Visions Visual and Performing Arts program, where he stretched his creative muscles and experienced college expectations in freshman level courses at Russell Sage College.
Outside the classroom, Jackson has always been involved in a wide range of extracurricular activities, from sports to academics, to music and the arts. In the fall, Jackson plans to attend SUNY New Paltz, where he will major in International Relations.
Katherine Lockett
Kate is driven, compassionate and ambitious in anything she does. Academically, she has gone above and beyond and has worked hard to get to where she is now.
Kate made it known that she had the drive to succeed early on in her academic journey. Being accelerated in both math and science since eighth grade, taking honors courses in both English and social studies since ninth grade, and still managing to graduate early this year at the top of her class is nothing short of incredible. Highlighting her accomplishments and dedication to her education, Kate is on track to graduate with a NYS Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation this June.
Her short-term goals include attending Hudson Valley Community College in the fall for a semester, then transferring to Colorado State University where she plans to pursue her bachelor’s degree in business.
Selena Bierwirth
Selena is hardworking and ambitious, with dreams of earning her veterinary science degree. During her time in high school Selena was a member of the varsity volleyball and softball teams, prom committee, senior steering committee and spent time volunteering with the American Red Cross.
Selena’s academic successes and strong character earned her spots in the National Honors Society, National Art Honors Society, and National Science Honors Society.
In the fall Selena plans to attend Hudson Valley Community College, studying biological sciences before transferring to complete her bachelor’s degree.