Fall River student recognized as one of the top vocational students in Massachusetts

A B.M.C. Durfee High School senior has received a prestigious recognition.

Melanie Berrios-Valcarcel was honored Thursday as one of the state’s Outstanding Vocational Students of the Year.

According to Fall River Public Schools, Melanie was nominated for the award by her Durfee culinary chef instructors, Jenna Michael and Matthew Bettencourt.

The teachers, Durfee Career and Technical Education Director, Cynthia Sylvia, Melanie, and her family traveled to Mechanics Hall in Worcester to attend the 39th Annual Outstanding Vocational Technical Student Award Ceremony.

The banquet is hosted by the Massachusetts Career and Technical Educators Organization and the Massachusetts Association of Vocational Administrators.

The ceremony honors exceptional vocational and technical students from across the Commonwealth.

Each year, more than 50 students are recognized for their excellence in various vocational fields. Recipients of the award were chosen by their schools for their exceptional academic performance throughout the year and their active involvement in both school and community life, exemplifying the highest standards of vocational-technical education.

FRPS states that Melanie has a natural love for food and hospitality and plans on opening up her own cafe after college.