Berlin High School Valedictorian: Addison Whiteside

Mature, thoughtful, intelligent, and “the complete package” – these are a few of the
words used to describe Addison Whiteside. Academically, Addy has challenged herself
to a rigorous course load while maintaining honor roll status throughout her time at
Berlin High School. She values her education, always putting forth her best work and
thinking critically about what and why she’s learning. Gymnastics, a large part of Addy’s
life for the past 13 years, exemplifies her character and commitment: As a year-long
sport that demands the ultimate in physical and mental performance, Addy has endured
several injuries that could have ended her athletic career. However, her love for the
sport and refusal to let anything beat her lead her to always find ways to overcome and
stay motivated. Addy is also involved in several extracurricular activities including Class
of 2024 Vice President, Student Director of the Writing Center, Upbeat, the Ryan T. Lee
Memorial Club, and the Random Acts of Kindness Club. Outside of school she
volunteers at the Meriden Humane Society and the Sacred Heart Church Berlin Fair
food booth. Several families in town call on Addy to provide childcare services; she
loves babysitting younger children. One of the things Addison will miss most about
Berlin High is candid conversations with peers and teachers not only about specific
subjects but life, struggles, and aspirations in general, and being able to simply wave
hello in the hallway to the people who have shaped who she is today. Her advice to
those currently in high school is to try your absolute best not only to take it one day at a
time but also to notice and appreciate the little things; even small moments stick in our
memories because they matter. Addison will be attending Brown University in the fall
where she will be a member of the gymnastics team. She hopes to choose a path that
allows her to make a difference in the future, whether that’s practicing law, studying film,
or something related to English.

Berlin High School Salutatorian: Patrick Kot

Patrick has been described as exceptional, intelligent, and a leader who is dedicated
not only to academics but also his extracurricular activities. During his Berlin High
School tenure he has consistently achieved honor roll status during every quarter while
challenging himself to a rigorous academic course load. His favorite subject is math
where he enjoys the logical aspect of the subject. He has attended Polish Language
School every Saturday for 10 years, ultimately preparing him to obtain the Connecticut
Seal of Biliteracy for the Polish language. Patrick’s passion for soccer leads him to
dedicate countless hours to improving his skills and contributing to his team’s success.
He is a team player who motivates and supports his peers. Patrick is also deeply
involved in extracurricular activities including Upbeat, Wilderness Club, and Powerlifting
Club. As a member of the DECA Business Club he placed second in the state
competition for the Business Law and Ethics category; as a co-founding member of the
Mock Trial Club his team placed in the top eight in the state competition. He is heavily
involved as a troop leader in Polish Boy Scouts, planning meetings and trips as well as
organizing fundraising and community service activities. With everything he’s involved
with, he finds time for employment at Suburban Ski and Bike. Once he leaves the halls
of Berlin High, Patrick will miss the close sense of community between the students and
teachers, the simple conversations, and sense of family amongst the Class of 2024. His
advice to those in high school is to get involved in various extracurricular activities as
this will help students meet new people from all grade levels, develop leadership skills,
build strong bonds with classmates and teachers, and will help students become well
rounded. After graduation Patrick will attend the University of Connecticut Honors
Program to study computer science, with an end goal of ultimately working in the
software development or cybersecurity field.