Valedictorian: Ryan Mattimore

GPA: 103.83

Georgetown University,  Biology, possible double major with government

SCN: How would you describe the character of your graduating class?

Ryan Mattimore: The Bayport-Blue Point Class of 2023 is passionate about each and every endeavor they are involved with. There are so many accomplished people in this graduating class, and everyone rises to the top in each of their respective fields. Whether it be athletically, artistically, or academically, my fellow graduates and I truly care and give their all.

SCN: What impact do you hope to make on your community in 10 years?

RM: In 10 years, I could see myself working as an attorney representing people who need it most in my community. I also might be working as a molecular biologist in a lab conducting research on genetics or new vaccines. I’m not entirely sure exactly which path I’ll go down, but whether that be more scientific or legal, I know I want to be doing something that will be making a difference for the better.

SCN: What teacher had the most positive impact on your academic career and why?

RM: My AP Research teacher, Mrs. Pedersen, has definitely been the most impactful teacher that I have ever worked with. She is incredibly intelligent, kind, and supportive. AP Research was the culminating course of my AP Capstone experience, and I truly believe that Mrs. Pedersen was the reason that I succeeded in that class. Working with Mrs. Pederson throughout my study on the district’s hybrid learning program during the 2020-2021 school year allowed me to publish my research with the Journal of Student Research. Helping me publish before the end of high school was just one of many ways Mrs. Pedersen helped me throughout my high school career, and I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to be her student.

Salutatorian: Erin McMahon

GPA: 102.69

Dickinson College, Neuroscience

SCN: How would you describe the character of your graduating class?

Erin McMahon: I would describe the graduating class as ambitious. The students of the class of 2023 have a drive and desire to be successful. Even through hard times, my classmates have never faltered. I know that we will continue to set high goals and achieve great things in the future.

SCN: What impact do you hope to make on your community in 10 years?

EM: In the future, I would like to make an impact on my community by helping children with disabilities. My mother is a special education teacher, so I had always been interested in helping children with various disabilities. In the future, I plan to become a pediatric neurologist, who diagnoses and treats patients with various disorders dealing with the brain and nervous system. By doing so, I will be in a position to help these children and their families.

SCN: What teacher had the most positive impact on your academic career and why?

EM: The teacher who had the biggest impact on my academic career was Mr. Roach, my AP Biology teacher. Biology doubled as the first AP course I have taken and my favorite AP course I have ever taken in my high school career. While biology is traditionally a daunting course, Mr. Roach taught in a way where I understood the information and felt confident and familiar with all the material. Mr. Roach’s class taught me how to properly manage my time to complete a heavy workload while still making the class interesting and fun. Furthermore, this class and Mr. Roach’s style piqued my interest in biology and helped me discover neuroscience, which I plan to pursue in the future.