Top of the class: Valedictorian and Salutatorian look to the future

The Class of 2025 Valedictorian Matteo Di Berto and Salutatorian, Ailey Simon, suspected their rankings but did not know for sure as the school year went on. It was confirmed in January that they are the top two students in their class.

“I was proud,” Matteo said of when he heard the news. 

For Ailey, it took some time to sink in.

“I was a bit distressed because I’m taking three tough classes,” she said. “I was very happy when it was confirmed that I was number two. I know I am making my family proud.”

Matteo said he never intentionally worked to achieve the top ranking but is happy it worked out the way it did.

“It represents everything I’ve worked so hard for in high school,” he said. “It’s my crowning achievement.”

In addition to their studies and grades, the two have made contributions to the school community in a variety of ways.

Matteo is President of the AHHS Student Government as well as serving as President to the school’s environmental club, the Green Club. He is also the Captain of the Track team and served in that role while on the Cross-Country team.

Ailey said she was involved in several clubs and played softball. She decided to focus solely on her studies, taking several Advanced Placement courses.

“I’m glad I did that,” she said. “I’m happy with the path I have chosen.”

As for the future, Matteo said “After graduation I will be studying computer science and artificial intelligence at Harvard University.”

One day, he said, he’d like to develop a start-up company related to Artificial Intelligence. 

Come fall Ailey will be attending the New York School of Visual Arts where she plans to study 3D Animation. She was excited to learn she is the recipient of the Silas H. Rhodes Scholarship.

She said she’s most looking forward to making new friends while in college and landing a solid job when she completes her studies.

As to that big day in June they are looking forward to it but know there is still work to do. That includes getting speeches ready for their classmates.

“I know I will include a thank you to my family and friends,” Ailey said.

“I plan to go off the top of my head,” Matteo said when it comes to his graduation speech. However, he did say it will likely include how he persevered over every obstacle that was put in his way.