LOS ALAMITOS, CA — On Wednesday, May 24, the ten valedictorians of Los Alamitos High School’s class of 2023 met in the gym, and their achievements were recognized in front of their family, friends, and some of their teachers. A balloon-decorated table was set out with name tags that included their university. 

Mrs. Kraus, principal of Los Al, began with a quick introduction to the event and a thank you to all who attended. She was excited to note that this was the first annual valedictorian lunch.

“It was suggested by the science department, and our admin team loved the idea,” said Mr. Courtemarche, assistant principal of arts and activities.

Mr. Courtemarche introduced each of the valedictorians, and all of them gave a small speech. The valedictorians thanked their friends, family, and teachers, and announced where they were going and what they plan to major in.

Here is a list of all the valedictorians, the school they are attending, and their majors:

Taylor Donato – UCLA, majoring in biology

Sean Kelman – UC Irvine, majoring in computer science engineering

Christopher Lavallee – Harvard, majoring in molecular biology

Irene Lee – UPenn, double majoring in chemistry and design

Tina Li – Cornell, majoring in environmental engineering

Aiden Pham – UCLA, majoring in biology

Allison Qu – UC Berkeley, majoring in economics

Sarah Saadeh – UC Berkeley, majoring in civil engineering

Riley Yew – UCLA, majoring in business economics

Nora Zajzon – UC San Diego, majoring in computer science engineering

After giving their speeches, the valedictorians took pictures with their family, friends, and teachers who attended.

“After pictures, we provided a lunch for the valedictorians and their families,” Mr. Courtemarche said.

Griffin Gazette asked a few valedictorians for their thoughts on the event.

“It was nice to be recognized for my academic achievements,” Sean Kelman said.

“It was fun to see my family and friends supporting me,” Taylor Donato said.

As aforementioned, this is the first valedictorian signing. Mrs. Kraus plans to continue this tradition every year.

“The Valedictorian Celebration mimicked how we honor our athletes that sign their National Letter of Intent,” Principal Kraus said. “It was a great opportunity to enhance our recognition for such an exceptional accomplishment.”

Griffin Gazette sends congratulations to the valedictorians as well as the entire graduating class of 2023.