Sag Harbor School District is proud to announce its Pierson High School Class of 2025 valedictorian and salutatorian as Kai Basseches and Milla Campomar – two accomplished students whose talents and passions span academics, the arts and leadership.

A Sag Harbor student since first grade, Basseches has been a standout for both his academic achievements and musical talents. He has played the piano since he was eight years old and also plays cello in the school orchestra. His love for music led him to cofound the school’s literary and arts magazine, Singularity, alongside his twin sister. Now in its seventh edition, the magazine features original poetry, stories, photography and artwork by students.

Academically inclined, Basseches is especially drawn to math and physics, areas he credits as deeply inspiring. His longtime interest in mathematics was nurtured by teacher Mr. Molina, who taught him in both middle and high school. While he remains undecided on his next steps, he’s confident his decision will include pursuing math and analytical thinking.

Basseches’ recent accomplishments include earning All-State recognition for piano and presenting an electronic composition at a prestigious Rochester music event last December. Outside the classroom, he works at the local historical museum, giving tours during the summer.

Basseches’s advice to fellow students: “It’s better to turn in your assignment a tad late than do it poorly. Build good relationships with your teachers, keep asking questions, and strive to improve.” He shared that he would miss his friends and the many teachers who supported him throughout his journey.

Campomar joined the Sag Harbor School District in sixth grade. Since then, she has embraced every opportunity to grow – academically, athletically and personally. A dynamic student leader, Campomar served as president of the student body this year and captained

the varsity volleyball team. She has also worked in retail since the age of 14, has recently earned her lifeguard certification and thrives in leadership roles.

As an International Baccalaureate diploma candidate, Campomar is passionate about languages and plans to pursue language studies at Duke University. Her interest in linguistics is influenced in part by her Argentine heritage and multilingual family life. She looks forward to studying abroad and immersing herself in different cultures.

Campomar credits her mother as a major influence. “My mom has always loved to learn and taught me that learning is everywhere—not just in school,” she said. The salutatorian also enjoys problem-solving and tutors students in math, one of her favorite subjects, along with physics and English. She fondly recalls her junior year English class with Mr. Holden, who helped elevate her writing.

Her message to students is: “Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Things are always changing—friend groups, classes, everything. Figure out who you are, and don’t shape yourself to fit others. Do things because you want to.”

She shared how she will deeply miss the proximity to the ocean, a defining feature of her Sag Harbor experience, as she embarks on her next chapter at Duke.