BILLERICA — Shawsheen Valley Technical High School announced its first-semester honorees for the Senior of the Month program. This initiative allows faculty to spotlight exemplary students who demonstrate outstanding character, leadership, and dedication to their school and community. Each recognized senior will receive special acknowledgment from The Billerica Lodge of Elks and will be in the running for the prestigious “Senior of the Year” award, set to be revealed at a May awards ceremony.
Each month, two seniors are selected based on a comprehensive set of criteria, including academic excellence, vocational skills, citizenship, and service. These students not only stand out among their peers but also embody the values of Shawsheen Tech, ensuring they leave a lasting impact as future alumni.
OCTOBER
LORRAINA (Raina) RAPOSA, of Wilmington, a senior in the Health Assisting program, has been named the female Senior of the Month for October. Ranked in the top five of her class, Raina exemplifies academic dedication and a passion for service.
Her commitment to community service is evident through her work as a swim instructor for children with disabilities, participation in the Suicide Walk for Hope for four years, and her role as a CDC teacher at Faith Formation. Additionally, she regularly assists with blood drives, substance abuse fairs, and supports Katie’s Closet.
Balancing academics with work, Raina is a pharmacy technician at CVS, a waitress at Cucina Larosa’s and Heather Wood Retirement Home, and a camp counselor at Shawsheen’s Summer Explore program.
A well-rounded leader, Raina serves as treasurer of the National Honor Society, is a member of the Anti-Bullying Club, Lead Orientation Leader, and SkillsUSA, where she earned two bronze district medals. She also played soccer and is an active swim team member.
Raina plans to attend a four-year college where she will major in biology on the pre-physician’s assistant track.
JONATHAN HUREAU, of Tewksbury, a senior in Advanced Manufacturing Technology, has been named the male Senior of the Month for October. Ranked in the top 10 of his class, Jonathan’s excellence extends beyond academics into leadership and service.
His contributions to the community include volunteering for Shawsheen’s Open Houses, Fall Fairs, Baystate Marathon, and the Billerica Substance Awareness and Prevention Family Funday. He also serves as the student advisor for the Machine Shop’s advisory board and actively participates in Shawsheen’s Service Day and outreach events.
A dedicated leader, Jonathan is the president of the National Honor Society, a Student Cabinet member, and part of SkillsUSA, where he achieved the prestigious title of National Silver Medalist in CNC 3-Axis Milling.
Jonathan is the captain of the cross-country team and has been an integral athlete for Shawsheen’s cross country and track and field team for the last three years.
After graduation, Jonathan plans to attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute and major in mechanical engineering.
NOVEMBER
CORRINE FOLEY, of Tewksbury, a senior in Health Assisting, has been named the female Senior of the Month for November. Ranked in the top 25 of her class, Corrine is a highly motivated and disciplined student.
Her passion for helping others is evident in her volunteer work at Strongwater Farm, assisting with Shawsheen’s community swim lessons, and participating in Shawsheen’s Trunk or Treat and Culture Fair.
Corrine is a co-op student at Encompass Rehabilitation, gaining hands-on experience in healthcare.
A standout athlete, she is the captain of the Shawsheen/Bedford/Lowell girls hockey team, where she played a key role in breaking the school’s record for most games won and securing a playoff spot for three consecutive years. She is also a captain of the cross-country team and a member of the track and field team.
Corrine is involved in SkillsUSA, Student Council, Recycling Club, and National Honor Society, earning SkillsUSA district and state medals in Medical Terminology in 2023 and 2024.
After high school, Corrine plans to attend the University of New England to pursue an allied exercise science (pre-physical therapy) degree.
DALE GARDNER, of Tewksbury, a senior in Electricity, has been named the male Senior of the Month for November. With a 3.8 GPA, Dale is a hardworking and devoted student.
Dale actively gives back to the community by volunteering for Shawsheen’s summer program, recycling program, and National Honor Society events. He also serves as an Orientation Leader, helping with freshman tours, open houses, Spring Fling, and Culture Fair.
Dale balances multiple jobs, working at Krochmal Farms, Capellini’s Italian Restaurant, and as a co-op student at Paul Brown Electric.
A natural leader, Dale is the class president of 2025, co-chair of the School Council, and head leader for Orientation Leaders. He is also involved in the National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society.
After graduation, Dale plans to enter the electrical workforce full-time as an apprentice and continue his education to become a journeyman electrician.
DECEMBER
KRISTIN (Krissi) MACDONALD, of Tewksbury, a senior in Electricity, has been named the female Senior of the Month for December. Ranked in the top three of her class, Krissi is a self-sufficient and empathetic student.
Krissi’s community involvement includes volunteering for Shawsheen’s summer basketball and volleyball clinics, the Billerica annual tree lighting, and the Wilmington Public Library Shelf Talkers program.
She is a co-op student at LiveWire Electric and also works at Pushcart Café.
A well-rounded student, Krissi is a National Honor Society and National Technical Honor Society member and competes in SkillsUSA, winning a junior-year medal in Industrial Motor Control.
Krissi has played basketball and volleyball for all four years and is most proud of her decision to attend Shawsheen Tech, which introduced her to new career pathways.
After graduation, Krissi plans to pursue a degree in electrical engineering.
ASWAD VAHORA, of Burlington, a senior in Programming & Web Development, has been named the male Senior of the Month for December. Ranked in the top 25 of his class, Aswad is known for his adaptability, logic, and patience.
He actively contributes to his community through the Islamic Center, helping to set up community dinners throughout Ramadan and fostering unity during the holy month.
Aswad gained valuable experience as a co-op tech desk assistant at TeamLogic IT and assists with his family’s business as a packing and distributor assistant.
A straight-A student, Aswad is involved in SkillsUSA, National Honor Society, and Student Cabinet. He also plays tennis.
After graduation, Aswad plans to attend a four-year college and major in cybersecurity and computer science.