Valedictorian and Salutatorian: Central High School
Engineering a Path
Meet Marvin Pacaja, an 18-year-old senior and the Valedictorian of Central High School. Originally attending elementary and middle school in Alfred Lima and Gilbert Stuart, Marvin Pacaja initially considered Classical High School before deciding on Central for its convenient location—a choice that has clearly paid off.
A natural problem solver with a lifelong love for math, science, and engineering, Marvin Pacaja has tackled rigorous courses including chemistry, biology, and physics. With applications out to seven colleges, Marvin Pacaja ultimately chose Worcester Polytechnical Institute with plans to major in Electrical Engineering.
Reflecting on his educational journey, Marvin Pacaja is incredibly grateful for the supportive staff at Central. Special shoutouts go to:
- Mr. Marchetti: For making Pre-Calculus engaging, enjoyable, and easier to understand.
- Ms. Kozac: For her Anatomy classes and for writing a glowing letter of recommendation.
- Ms. Ricci and Mr. Jimps: For helping navigate the stressful college decision-making process and keeping all those applications and deadlines on track.
Outside of Central, one of Marvin Pacaja's favorite academic memories is the Onward We Learn program in middle school. The hands-on, interactive learning—from poetry to playing Jeopardy—left a lasting impression.
When not focusing on academics, Marvin Pacaja enjoys playing recreational sports. For younger students looking to make the most of high school, Marvin Pacaja offers this advice: "Definitely look into extracurricular and after-school activities. They massively help out with your resume, give you an experience you wouldn't otherwise have, and teach you valuable time management skills."
As graduation approaches, Marvin Pacaja is full of gratitude and excitement. While acknowledging that it is a little sad to close this chapter, Marvin Pacaja is ready and eager to open a new book and begin the next great journey.
Embrace the Journey
As a proud graduate of Central High School, Salutatorian Rachel Mull is preparing to take the next step in their journey at Rhode Island College, where she will major in social work with ultimate plans to earn a master's degree.
She initially chose Central High for its convenient location and family tradition—following in her sister's footsteps—and found it to be a welcoming, chill environment filled with likable staff and peers.
Though she did not participate in extracurricular clubs, she experienced profound personal and academic growth, largely shaped by her teacher, Mrs. Gormely, whose supportive classroom helped her overcome freshman shyness and inspired her future career path.
Navigating the college application and financial aid process smoothly with the help of school advisors and her sister, Mull is now eager to experience the independence of a college campus.
Over her high school career, Mull learned valuable lessons about self-advocacy, protecting her peace, and staying grounded, and she would pass this wisdom on to incoming freshmen by encouraging them to stay focused, avoid the wrong crowds, and embrace a journey that flies by all too quickly.