PVHS celebrates the 2023 best of class

On May 11, Pequea Valley High School (PVHS) showed appreciation to the top 15% of the Class of 2023 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 2023, was opened by school counselor Jason Davis, who noted that these select students have "exemplified dedication, hard work, and perseverance throughout their high school careers." "In spite of obstacles, these learners have consistently performed at an academically high level," he said.

Assistant principal Amy Koberstein made a special address to students and parents. Koberstein noted, "Your parents' refrigerators have been plastered with A+ assignments for the past 13 years." She went on to encourage students as they move forward, saying, "It is my hope that you do not disregard the passions that excite you. I encourage you to seek the success in life that brings you joy, happiness, and, most importantly, fun." She concluded by adding, "Don't forget to honor and remember your friends, parents, and family. Go home and hang your certificates on the fridge."

Assistant to the Pequea Valley School District (PVSD) superintendent Rich Eby offered recognition from the school by first listing all the career hopes of the top students. "Business administration entrepreneurship, music education, research and design, video game design, automotive engineering technology, nursing," Eby said, pointing out, "You are the elite top 15% of the PVHS Class of 2023, and this is a list of the first choices (for careers)." He charged students to take on their future jobs with "the intentions of making the world a good place." "Your first choices will put you in a position to have a positive impact," he said. "We can't wait to see how things will go for you."

PVSD school board vice president Bryant Ferris offered congratulations from the board, commenting on the proverb that says, "It takes a village to raise a child." "It takes many people to provide a safe, healthy environment where children are given the security they need to develop and flourish to realize their hopes and dreams," he said. "This celebration brings together the villagers who were most important along the journey. Go forward knowing the village is always here for you and rooting for you."

Each of the top students present was given the opportunity to stand at the podium and talk about one teacher who had been an influence during his or her education. Each student was also asked to talk about activities he or she had been involved in at PVHS and to share his or her future plans. This year's top students were Cameron Beiler, Peter Brumbach, Madison Clark, Olivia Clark, Brooke Graham, Jesse Hoopes, Cole McEvoy, Wyatt McGinnis, Joel Peifer, William Porter, Olivia Ross, Wade Stotlzfus, Kianna Winey, and Noah Zink.