Boston’s valedictorians defy the odds
Boston Public Schools honored 33 valedictorians, many immigrants or first-generation students, including Bedthznaida Augustin, who overcame language barriers and multiple school moves to earn a full scholarship to Suffolk University. Mayor Michelle Wu and other speakers emphasized resilience and the importance of contributing to the city after graduation, with students set to attend prestigious colleges like Harvard and Dartmouth.
Boston Public Schools celebrated its 33 valedictorians at an annual luncheon on Tuesday, highlighting their achievements despite challenges like immigration and language barriers. Bedthznaida Augustin, who immigrated to Boston in 2022 after attending seven schools across four countries, became valedictorian at Boston International High School. She captained the volleyball team, competed in debate, and advocated for school lunches while learning English alongside Spanish and Haitian Creole. Augustin earned a full scholarship to Suffolk University this fall and spoke at the event, quoting her mother’s words: *‘Edikasyon se lavi.’ *Education is life.* Eighteen of the valedictorians will be the first in their families to attend college, and many received full scholarships to institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and Dartmouth. Fifteen have been in Boston Public Schools since kindergarten, while 13 were born outside the U.S., with nine fluent in two or more languages. Sanie Joseph, valedictorian of New Mission High School, taught herself English before immigrating from Haiti at 15 and will study neuroscience at Dartmouth, aiming for a healthcare career. Mayor Michelle Wu shared her experience as the child of immigrant parents, noting how her fluency in English gave her opportunities beyond the home. She urged the students to return to Boston and contribute to the city that supported them. Vania Pereira, from the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement, spoke about her journey as an undocumented immigrant and Fenway High School valedictorian, warning students that excellence alone won’t always protect them from inequity. The event underscored the diversity of Boston’s top graduates, with Boston Public Schools Deputy Superintendent Simone Wright noting how their backgrounds broaden students’ worldviews. Pereira encouraged the class of 2026 to challenge injustices and reimagine systems, emphasizing that their success is a testament to resilience. The celebration included certificates, handshakes with school officials, and speeches from parents, educators, and city leaders.
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