What’s better than having one of Kingston High School’s Class of 2025’s highest achievers in your house? Having two of them.

Kingston schools officials announced on Thursday that twin siblings Meghan Cooper and Luke Cooper are, respectively, the valedictorian and the salutatorian of KHS’ Class of 2025. “These academic achievers … have earned the top two honors through exceptional dedication both in and out of the classroom,” the Kingston City School District stated in a press release. “Their high school journeys have been marked by embracing Kingston High School's rich array of programs across academics, performing arts, athletics and leadership opportunities.”

Meghan leads her class with a weighted grade point average (GPA) of 101.6699, while Luke follows closely with a GPA of 101.6642. Both students, who are the children of Benjamin and Kelli Cooper of Hurley, have maintained a rigorous academic schedule throughout high school. Meghan has taken 14 advanced courses, including 10 Advanced Placement (AP) classes and four college-level courses. Luke has pursued an equally impressive course of study, taking 15 advanced courses, including 11 AP classes and four college-level courses.

Dr. Rachael Scorca, principal of Kingston High School, commended both students. "Never underestimate someone who appears soft-spoken; Meghan and Luke are tirelessly working behind the scenes and working for the greater good,” she said. “Their teachers rave about their kindness, attention to detail, and organization and follow-through."

Meghan and Luke have excelled academically while demonstrating leadership through their numerous extracurricular activities. Meghan serves as a drum major in the Kingston High School Band, where she plays clarinet, while Luke plays trumpet and serves as head section leader. For Luke, the annual final band competition at Syracuse's JMA Wireless Dome stands out as one of his most memorable high school experiences. "It's the feeling you get as you walk in front of everyone and give them the show that you've put so much dedication and work into," he said.

Their musical talents extended beyond band to the theater stage. Both students performed in school musicals throughout their high school careers, culminating with significant roles in this year's production of “Something Rotten.” Meghan shared: "When I'm on stage, I can forget all my school stress and just enjoy performing."

Together, Meghan and Luke serve as co-presidents of the Math Team and Mock Trial club. Additionally, Meghan is president of Girls Who Code and the National Honor Society, while Luke serves as co-president of the Computer Science Club. In athletics, Luke captains the Varsity Tennis team, and Meghan plays on the Varsity Soccer team. The siblings also contribute to their community by sharing their knowledge through tutoring — Meghan at John F. Kennedy Elementary School and Luke at the high school, where he assists fellow students in subjects like AP Physics and Computer Science.

Each twin supports and appreciates the other. "I want to thank God, my family, my friends, all my teachers, and especially Luke," Meghan said. "I don't know what I would do without him. He's been my best friend my whole life. It's really special that we can share this moment together."

Looking ahead to post-graduation plans, both students are still considering options for college, though they hope to attend the same school if possible. Meghan plans to eventually attend law school, while Luke is interested in pursuing software engineering or computer science with plans to earn a master's degree.

The KCSD, and Kingston Wire too, congratulates Meghan and Luke Cooper on their achievements and wishes them success in their future endeavors.