BIDDEFORD — When Reid Lavigne strides across the stage to receive his high school diploma Friday evening, it will be with a lot of pride.

Lavigne, 18, says he’ll remember the time he spent at Biddeford High School fondly and mentioned what he’ll miss the most.

“The happy environment and the teachers who are there to help,” said Lavigne about leaving the school.

The son of Ron and Tammy Lavigne, he is an exceptional senior who thrived in his studies at BHS. 

During his four years at BHS, Lavigne could be found in the Center of Technology, taking classes there three out of his four years.

Along with support from his parents, Lavigne strove for his personal best in school and worked hard to meet his goals. He thrived in classes, where he can attribute his involvement with teachers, specifically in machinery classes, as being a big help.

One teacher that stood out to Lavigne is Mr. Ouellette, his former geometry teacher. “Geometry didn’t come as easy to me … Mr. Ouellette helped in making my learning experience easier by connecting geometry to work experiences I could relate to.”

During his freshman year, Lavigne started his own landscaping business, Reid’s Lawncare.

“I worked at Target but it wasn’t for me,” he said. “I love the outdoors and wanted to do something I knew I would put my best effort in.”

After graduating, he plans to continue his business, as well as continuing to work at Arundel Machine Tools, where he was employed throughout his high school career.

One of Lavigne’s most cherished moments from high school is his success in bass fishing. He and his fishing partner recently won the state championship and will continue their journey in two weeks at the national championships in Tennessee.

“I regret not participating in more sports,” Lavigne said, “I spent most time working and realize I should have taken more time in sports [at school].”

When considering his immediate future, Lavigne has a desire to travel to the Caribbean and enjoy time off before continuing work. In the distant future, ideally Lavigne will expand his landscaping business and become a successful business owner.

Looking back at his time with Biddeford High School, Lavigne said he was grateful for the experience.

“There are a lot of inner programs under the radar that need to have light shined on them,” he said. “I wouldn’t have known about the trade wing and Center of Technology if it wasn’t for prior knowledge.”

Lavigne hopes future students become more aware of local programs available and that other students can take advantage of what Biddeford High School has to offer.

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