Dear FHC Families:
Whether to continue the tradition of recognizing a Valedictorian and Salutatorian in high schools has
become an increasingly discussed issue across our nation. Forest Hills Central High School has
traditionally recognized a Valedictorian and Salutatorian as the top two academic performers in the
class based solely on their grade point averages. With increased and varied scheduling options, in
addition to countless on-line course opportunities available to students, the validity of this practice has
raised some concerns of equity and fairness in the determination of these recognitions.
After gathering input from parents, students, and faculty a decision has been made to remove
the acknowledgement of a Valedictorian and Salutatorian beginning with the class of 2020
(current 9th graders). The Val/Sal recognition will be replaced with a leveling distinction that is
consistent with our acknowledgements of academic honors (cumulative GPA of 3.3 - 3.79) and high
academic honors (cumulative GPA of 3.8 - 4.0+) currently used with the underclassmen, and name our
recognition of graduates with a 4.0 and above as Summa cum laude. Therefore, the levels of distinction
awarded to students would be:
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

Cum laude: GPA 3.3-3.79
Magna cum laude: GPA 3.8 - 3.99
Summa cum laude: GPA 4.0+
Each level would have a distinction in the graduation program and would wear a yet to be determined
cord, sash, or medal. The speaker(s) at graduation would be selected by a committee of administrators,
staff, and students in a yet to be determined process.
This change in practice at Central High School will also bring us in line and is consistent with the senior
recognition practices at both Northern and Eastern high schools in Forest Hills.
As always, if you have any questions about this change do not hesitate to contact us.
With respect,
Steve Passinault
Principal
Forest Hills Central High School