What does 'salutatorian' mean in high school graduation terms?

Hey folks, I'm going to be a junior and I've heard the term 'salutatorian' thrown around a lot recently. Could someone please clarify exactly what it means? What are the responsibilities, and how does the school decide who gets that title?

In high school graduation terminology, the salutatorian is traditionally the student who ranks second highest in the graduating class. This title and its privileges can vary widely by region and school, but it is generally based on grade point average (GPA), and sometimes also factors in the level of course rigor.

The method of determining the salutatorian can vary by institution, and sometimes other elements like extracurricular involvement or community service could be factored into the selection process. Academic performance is generally the key consideration, though.

Very often, the salutatorian is tasked with delivering a farewell address known as the salutatorian speech during the graduation ceremony. This speech usually precedes the valedictorian's address, and the content can vary based on the school's traditions. Generally, a salutatorian speech might include words of inspiration, reflections on the high school years, and gratitude to teachers, family, and fellow students.

Bear in mind that while the valedictorian and salutatorian titles are prestigious, neither guarantees anything in the college process. Schools will consider the overall strength of your academic and extracurricular profile in the admissions process, as well as intangible factors like essays and letters of recommendation.

Furthermore, not all schools use this system — some schools may choose to recognize multiple 'top graduates' instead, or simply not rank students, so it's not always the most useful tool for colleges who are trying to compare students who come from schools all over the country.

Of course, being salutatorian is certainly a remarkable achievement, and a great starting point for impressing admissions committees! Just make sure that your overall application also reflects your strengths. Good luck with the rest of your high school career!