Friends of Vocational Technical & Agricultural Education,
Ten years ago, the U.S. Presidential Scholars program was expanded to include CTE students specifically. Presidential Scholars in CTE are selected for their “outstanding scholarship and demonstrated ability and accomplishment in career and technical education fields.” Nominees are selected from each state in the country based on their academic rigor, technical competence, employability skills, and ingenuity and creativity.
David
Shawsheen Valley Technical School Senior Sarah Johansen Honored as U.S. CTE Presidential Scholar
Sarah Johansen of Shawsheen Tech, celebrated as one of five CTE Presidential Scholars in Massachusetts, receives a plaque from DESE’s Deputy Commissioner Dr. Regina Robinson (leftmost) and MAVA’s Executive Director Steven Sharek (rightmost). Principal Cook of Shawsheen Tech stands proudly to her left.
Shawsheen Valley Technical High School proudly announces that senior Sarah Johansen has been recognized as one of five U.S. CTE Presidential Scholars for the State of Massachusetts. This prestigious accolade, presented by the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators (MAVA) and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (MA DESE), underscores Sarah’s exceptional achievements and leadership qualities.
Established in 1964 by executive order of the President, the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of graduating high school seniors nationwide. With only approximately 160 students chosen annually by the U.S. Department of Education (USED) as Presidential Scholars, it stands as one of the highest honors for high school students in the United States.
Sarah Johansen’s selection reflects her remarkable dedication to academics, leadership, and community involvement. Principal Jessica Cook, speaking at the MAVA award ceremony, described Sarah as "an exceptional role model to all CTE students in Massachusetts and across the nation."
Throughout her time at Shawsheen Tech, Sarah has demonstrated her commitment to excellence through various leadership roles. She serves as the Student Representative on the School Committee, Secretary of the National Honor Society, President of the Teen Dating Violence Awareness Club, co-captain of the student orientation leader program, peer tutor, member of the senior class advisory, SkillsUSA competitor, and Varsity Tennis player.
Sarah’s academic achievements are equally impressive, currently ranking 3rd in her class and consistently earning high honors throughout her high school career. Her commitment to academic excellence is further highlighted by her success in Concurrent Enrollment courses as both a junior and a senior.
In addition to her academic and leadership roles, Sarah has excelled in her co-op placement as an Electronics Technicians Assistant at Diversified Technologies since her junior year, illustrating her commitment to applying her skills in practical, real-world settings.
Garvy Altine, an education specialist for the Massachusetts CCTE Office, commended Sarah’s achievements, stating, “The review team was impressed with Sarah’s submission and are proud to have her represent Massachusetts as one of the nominees for this prestigious award.”
As one of Massachusetts’ nominees, Sarah is now being considered as a nationwide finalist for the U.S. Presidential Scholars program.
Sarah’s guidance counselor, Amanda Samaha, commented on her exceptional qualities, remarking, "It is hard to put into words succinctly why Sarah is the perfect recipient for this award; there are just so many wonderful things about her."
Looking ahead, Sarah plans to attend UMass Lowell in the fall, where she will pursue a degree in Mathematics. Inspired by educators like her Engineering Teacher Ms. Tanya Baron, she aspires to become a High School Math teacher, aiming to positively impact students’ lives as her mentors have impacted hers.
About Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical School District:
Established in 1965, Shawsheen Valley Regional Vocational Technical School District (SVRVTSD) stands as a beacon of educational excellence, placing students at the center of its mission. Proudly serving the communities of Billerica, Bedford, Burlington, Tewksbury, and Wilmington, Shawsheen caters to the diverse needs of over 1,300 students in grades 9-12.
Dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in education, Shawsheen seamlessly integrates academics with a dynamic range of over 20 vocational-technical career pathways. Located in Billerica, Massachusetts, Shawsheen’s expansive 100-acre campus hosts an exceptional school building adorned with high-end and industry relevant equipment, athletic fields, twenty-four varsity sports, and a plethora of extra-curricular clubs and activities.
With a passionate faculty and staff, Shawsheen remains committed to its mission: "to provide a positive learning experience in a safe educational environment that encourages all students to reach their full potential, emphasizes the value of a strong work ethic, and prepares them for adult life in a competitive world."
Beyond its traditional academic offerings, Shawsheen Valley Technical School extends its educational reach through Adult Education, Afterschool Enrichment Programs, Community-focused Events, and Summer Programs. The district continually strives to expand its rich and diverse programming, embracing the belief that education is a lifelong, continuous process with numerous paths leading to a successful and fulfilling life.
David J. Ferreira
MAVA Communications Coordinator
DavidFerreira