Biddeford High School senior Benjamin Descoteaux recently received the 2025 Maine Principals’ Association Principal’s Award, given annually to a senior from each Maine high school in recognition of their academic achievement and citizenship.

The Principal’s Award is presented in over 100 Maine public and private high schools, honoring students who go above and beyond in their school communities.

Descoteaux holds a grade point average of 4.27 and plans to study business at Clemson University in South Carolina in the fall.

While Descoteaux’s academic resume may be impressive, Biddeford High School Principal Martha Jacques said his warm smile, kind heart and willingness to go above and beyond for anyone in need stand out most.

“He brings positive energy, a contemplative outlook, and is not quick to make a judgment or decision, but rather takes his time, gathers information, and processes it in a way that I have not seen another high school student do,” Jacques said.

Descoteaux is also able to handle complex issues with confidence and competence, Jacques said, and advocate for the best interests of himself and others.

“Including those whose voices are not typically heard,” she said.

Biddeford Mayor Martin Grohman said Descoteaux reflects the qualities seen every day in Biddeford High School students, including being hardworking, humble, and always lifting up those around him.

“This award is a tremendous honor, and there’s no one more deserving,” Grohman said. “We’re incredibly proud of Ben and excited to see all that his future holds.”

Biddeford High School teacher and coach Jon Jacques also praised Descoteaux, saying that the city could not have found a more worthy recipient of the award.

Descoteaux has a unique combination of work ethic, curiosity and intellect that is both impressive and refreshing, he said.

“Ben is an unforgettable young man,” Jacques said. “He is selfless. He cares deeply about his community and others. You can be sure that Ben will put his teammates, classmates, teachers and fellow citizens before himself.”