On May 1, 2023, Biddeford High School held its annual National Honors Society (NHS) Induction Ceremony, with 18 students receiving this honor. Hunter Frechette stood proudly with his classmates to be recognized. "As a child with Down Syndrome, Autism, Tourettes, and ADHD, things have not always been easy. Hunter has worked so hard to get to where he is today, which is a testament to his perseverance, resiliency, and strength of character," said Diane Frechette, Hunter's mother. "I am so incredibly proud of him, and to watch him receive this honor brought me to tears and filled my heart.”
The NHS is a prestigious organization that recognizes high-achieving high school students nationwide. Membership is based on the four pillars of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. A leader in innovation and focused on removing barriers, Biddeford High School has taken the next step in recognizing that "high-achieving" means more than what many have come to think of in the traditional sense. Biddeford High School principal Martha Jacques notes, “This is a monumental occasion towards inclusivity at Biddeford High School, and I am delighted that our staff and students recognized Hunter in this way.”
Frechette was nominated and voted by his peers to be inducted into the NHS. He participated in the NHS ceremony, which inducted the following students: Eva Aranovitch, Micayla Budd, Chloe Cadorette, Nikolai Davidenko, Xavier De La Torre, Benjamin Descoteaux, Eliza Doyon, Emily Frechette, Ella Ireland, Layla Keddy, Ayla Lagasse, Harris Leonard, Alec Martin, Theodora Quint, Tabrea Richardson, Gabriella Smith, Hannah Sonne-Loranger, honorary member - Hunter Frechette.
Despite his unique challenges, Frechette demonstrates outstanding character by being a positive role model. "We are extremely proud of Hunter for his accomplishments," said Jacques. "His dedication to his school, commitment to service, and leadership skills inspire all of us. He has shown that anything is possible with hard work and determination." Frechette has shown leadership skills at school and in the community by participating as the Assistant Director & Coach of Challenger League Baseball, helping at Rotary events, and volunteering at Maine Medical Center and is a part of the Freshman Mentor Program. Athletically, Frechette participates in adaptive surfing, adaptive sled hockey, horseback riding, Special Olympics track and field, and unified basketball.
PHOTO CAPTION ABOVE: Biddeford High School (BHS) Senior Hunter Frechette (far left) stands with his peers following their induction into the BHS National Honor Society.