Each year, the top two graduating seniors with the highest grade point average (GPA) earn the honors of class valedictorian and salutatorian. After four years of dedication, hard work and perseverance, seniors valedictorian Rahul Sindvani and salutatorian Andrew Deakin have earned these titles for their academic success.

“Both students exemplify qualities of leadership and academic excellence, and they both have been exceptionally positive contributors to our Farmington High School community. They are excellent representatives of their class, and I know they will do a fine job at graduation. They should be very proud of their accomplishments. I am pleased to recognize them for all that they have achieved,” Principal Bill Silva said.

Sindvani and Deakin were called down to the counseling office on March 17 where all of the counselors congratulated them.

“Mr. Loomis informed me of the news and told me he is sure that my sister would be excited to hear the news considering she was the salutatorian two years ago,” Sindvani said.

These honors will require Sindvani and Deakin to write and read their graduation speeches on June 20.

“It’s a huge honor and it feels great to be recognized for all the hard work. However, there are so many other people that are also very deserving of recognition. Therefore, in my speech, I would like to reflect on the best memories and accomplishments of our class while leaving a positive message for the future,” Deakin said.

Although both honorees have had academic success, both Sindvani and Deakin have emphasized that they feel more accomplished outside of the classroom where their success is not purely based on a grade point average.

“You can’t judge yourself purely based on grades. High school is a time to find a balance of academics and what you are passionate about. I took part in many clubs that resulted in many lasting friendships. There’s more to the high school experience than just grades,” Sindvani said.

Sindvani has joined clubs such as Science Olympiad whose head coach is science teacher Eric Tucker.

“Rahul is an extremely talented student. His abilities in the technical fields of math and science are absolutely top notch. As he continues his education, he has the ability to leave his mark in that field. His sheer processing power paired with his dedication and commitment gives him a promising future in the scientific community,” Tucker said.

Junior Noor Taweh worked with Sindvani through InterAct and noticed the same commitment.

“Rahul was great to collaborate with to accomplish the most in InterAct. He truly showed diligence and genuinely cared for the community. I wish him the best in all his endeavors,” Taweh said.

Sindvani will be attending the honors program at the University of Connecticut majoring in physiology and neurobiology. As a certified emergency medical technician (EMT), he plans to volunteer as an EMT while studying in college.

Deakin has been involved in swimming, golf and Student Council among other activities. Others noticed his dedication as well.

“Andrew was extremely hard working, mature and the voice of reason in the classroom. He was a true class leader. I liked Andrew’s down-to-Earth, common sense approach who tried to make the classroom experience better,” science teacher Vincent Tokarz said.

Deakin once arranged to have an expert on explosives manufacturing for Ensign-Bickford Co. come into class. This was the “typical” Deakin, according to Tokarz. Deakin plans on majoring in engineering at Dartmouth College where he will be attending next fall.

Junior Caroline Feinberg worked with Deakin on Student Council, working closely with him as she is Executive Vice President External and Deakin is Executive President.

“Andrew is an exemplary leader not just because of his outstanding grades but because of his great character. His hard work as President truly showed in every event,” Feinberg said.

Regardless of what they have done in their high school careers, both students are expected to continue their success.

“It will be great to witness the great things these gentlemen will do with their lives and the positive effects that they will have on society. I expect great things from them,” Tokarz said.