'Unparalleled resilience, adaptability and determination'

CAMBRIDGE — It was during summer break of last year that Wil and Luke Reinbold found out they just might end up sharing a title other than twin.

“I was starting on college applications and they were asking for my class rank,” Wil said in an interview with the Star Democrat. “So I emailed my guidance counselor, and she got back to me and told me that I was ranked first, and I was tied with my brother.”

Fast forward to last Thursday evening, the identical twin brothers — who have matching grade point averages down to the hundredth of a decimal — were called to the stage in the gym of Cambridge-South Dorchester High School as co-valedictorians of the school’s class of 2024.

“Some of you may be wondering why there are two people that look so similar standing up here tonight giving a speech,” Luke said. “Some say I’m the funny twin.”

“While other’s say I’m the better looking twin,” Wil cut in.

During their speech, the pair talked about the importance of taking risks and working through challenges.

“If times get tough down the road, we must remember all the good times and lessons learned in high school,” Luke said.

CSD Principal Jerome Stover acknowledged some of those challenges the class of 2024 faced in their high school career, particularly with the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Despite the challenges of the pandemic, the school shut downs, the world coming to a halt, you have demonstrated unparalleled resilience, adaptability and determination to succeed,” he said.

The class received a total of $2.8 million in scholarships.

Stover reminded the audience that four years ago, these students didn’t get to have a traditional eighth grade graduation ceremony.

“But today, as you stand on the brink of a new chapter in your lives, it is essential to acknowledge the magnitude of this milestone,” he said. “You have taken chances, leapt in the face of uncertainty, embarked on road trips, enjoyed senior trips, witnessed and enjoyed breathtaking experiences as a CSD student.”

During the commencement address, CSD teacher and basketball coach Shawn Tucker told the students that inspiration can come from unexpected sources. He talked about a student who, over the last four years, went from not attending class, to arguing with Tucker to calling Tucker the reason they come to school every day.

“There were a lot of times that I didn’t want to get up and come to school, but I thought (about) what you told me,” Tucker said about the student. “And it inspired me to get here. Maybe not on time, but I got here.”

The graduation ceremony brought tears and laughter on Thursday evening. Along with the speeches, the CSD chorus performed “I Lived” by OneRepublic, and the students, along with some staff and administration members, performed “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey and “The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes.