On May 15, Pequea Valley High School (PVHS) showed appreciation to the top 15% of the Class of 2025 by inviting seniors with the highest grade point averages, along with their parents, to gather for recognition in the auditorium.

The event, known as the Best of the Class of 2025, was opened by school counselor Jason Davis, who noted that these select students have "demonstrated remarkable dedication, resilience and a strong commitment to excellence throughout their educational journey."

"Despite facing personal and collective challenges, they continue to strive and thrive academically. Their determination, focus, and passion for success are truly commendable," Davis said.

Assistant principal Amy Koberstein offered remarks of recognition from the school. She based her speech on the book "Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resilience, and Redemption" by Laura Hillenbrand, noting that Louis Zamperini - the subject of the book - led a life that embodied "the true meaning of grit." "I reflect on the story every year at this time," said Koberstein, noting that she hopes to see graduating students take Zamperini's characteristics with them as they leave the school. Koberstein briefly discussed Zamperini's life as a troubled youth who found stability through running and even took part in the Olympics. While serving in the military, during World War II, Zamperini survived a plane crash only to spend nearly 50 days drifting in the Pacific Ocean before being captured and spending two years as a prisoner of war. "He refused to give up," noted Koberstein. "His perseverance through trauma was nothing short of heroic."

She went on to explain that grit is not about strength, but rather about endurance. "It's about pushing forward when every part of you wants to give up," she said. "As assistant principal, I see firsthand what grit looks like in high school students," she added, noting the accomplishments of the students in the room who had attended college courses and summer leadership programs and how they had changed the school environment. "Their commitment to themselves and other learners transformed our school community," she said. In parting, Koberstein noted that students should take what they have learned to the following chapter. "As you step into the next phase of life, remember success isn't always about talent or luck; it's about grit. ... As you get ready to walk into your future, carry the spirit of grit with you, and may you remain unbroken."

Assistant to the Pequea Valley School District (PVSD) superintendent Rich Eby offered recognition from the school district by first listing career hopes of the top students, which included business management, finance, anesthesiology, chemistry, accounting, ecology, graphic design, manufacturing, and sports management. Eby stressed the effect the students could have on their environments once they move beyond the walls of PVHS. "As you step into the world beyond PV, you carry more than just diplomas; you carry the potential, purpose, and power," he said. "I urge you to understand the responsibility of the impact you can have on the future." In encouraging students to be active in their future communities, he noted, "This world is ever changing. We need your voice, your compassion, and your courage." To lessen the weight of responsibility moving forward, Eby added, "Being an engaged citizen doesn't mean having all the answers but being willing to ask the right questions. It means listening, learning, and being present in your communities, workplaces, and relationships." In closing, Eby stated, "Your actions have the power to ripple outward. Be brave enough to try and humble enough to grow. Society needs you as an engaged citizen."

Pequea Valley School Board vice president Fred Hertzler provided recognition of the students from the school board by reminding them of the lessons found in the "Winnie-the-Pooh" books by A. A. Milne. Hertzler focused on the characters in the books and what each can impart about how to live life. "Pooh thinks a lot about honey for himself," noted Hertzler. "Take time for yourself, but don't think it's all about you. You need balance." Hertzler went on to use Piglet as an example of how students should surround themselves with supportive people and the sad character of Eeyore to encourage them to face negativity by gathering the necessary supports to succeed. Pointing out that Tigger is the bounciest of the characters, he noted, "Take time to relax and have fun." Lastly, Hertzler said that Owl represented the mentor that each student should seek.

Each of the top students present was asked to come to the podium to receive a certificate and provide information about themselves, including their plans following graduation and which teacher they had invited to the event to be honored as a person who had been a positive influence during their time in PVSD. Students in the top 15% of the PVHS Class of 2025 are Emily Eckenrode, Hayden Winey, Bailey Scott, Hannah Kern, Taylor Gehman, Savannah Lantz, Samantha Groff, Brianna Lourido, Carissa Sensenig, Trevor Vollmer, Cole Stoltzfus, Jaxson Zook, Morgan Graham, Sydney Roye, Jackson Hershey, Lana Willenbrock, and Abigail Beiler.