On April 10, 2025, Berlin Middle High School celebrated the outstanding academic achievements of the Class of 2025’s top ten students with a special reception. The event was hosted by Principal Mr. David Bernsley, Counselor Mrs. Rachel Harrison, and Assistant Principal Mrs. Meghan Reynolds.
The evening was attended by BCSD Interim Superintendent Dr. Maureen Long, Berlin Middle High School staff, Board of Education President Mrs. Katie Murray, and Board of Education member Mrs. Kimberly Collen.
For the first time, a full dinner was served, thanks to the BCSD Food Service department, led by Food Service Director Mrs. Tammy Whitman, and BMHS Food Service staff members Mrs. Lora Dunlop and Ms. Amanda Monk. The dinner hour featured a playlist curated by the top ten students, creating a unique and celebratory atmosphere.
Congratulations to the honored students, whose achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication.
Learn more about their accomplishments in their video reflection below.
Stay tuned for full bios on Valedictorian Lillian Gardell and Salutatorian Sophia Hart.
A special thank you to Mrs. Rachel Harrison, Mrs. Amie Decker, Mrs. Shannon DeCelle, Mr. Nate Ellis, Ms. Karen Day, Mrs. Meghan Reynolds, and Mr. David Bernsley for making the evening truly special.
The event was an example of the power of community and the importance of celebrating student success. It was wonderful to fill the room with families, friends and staff honoring and lifting up these outstanding Mountaineers.
Videos, Photos, and Banner: BCSD Communications
Congratulations to the Berlin High School Class of 2025 Top 10 Scholars:
Lillian Gardell, (Valedictorian)
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Biological Neuroscience
Women’s Softball Team
Lillian’s Video Reflection
Sophia Hart (Salutatorian)
College – Undecided
Nursing
Sophia’s Video Reflection
Alexis Rifenburg #3
Binghamton University
Psychology
Minor in Criminology
Alexis’ Video Reflection
Haylee Jones #4
Hudson Valley Community College
Electrical Engineering
Haylee’s Video Reflection
Owen Lowry #5
University at Albany
Computer Science
Owen’s Video Reflection
Katherine Dundas #6
Keuka College
Adolescent Education
Katherine’s Video Reflection
Madison Bell #7
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Electrical Engineering
Considering a minor in Aerospace Engineering
Madison’s Video Reflection
Curtis Hurd #8
Hudson Valley Community College
Civil Engineering
Curtis’ Video Reflection
Kyle Collen #9
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Mechanical Engineering
Kyle’s Video Reflection
Jayli Capasso #10
College – Undecided
2-D Animation
Jayli’s Video Reflection
Please find an album from the reception below.