The graduating class of 2024 at Norwin High School in Irwin, Pennsylvania, includes an extraordinary 11 sets of twins, making up 5% of the class. This is the highest number of twins the school has seen in the nine years that Dr. Michael Choby has been the principal. Nationwide, twins occur in about 3% of all births, so the high concentration at Norwin High is quite unusual. The phenomenon was brought to light by a faculty member who is also a parent to one of the sets of twins in the class.
With twins making up a significant portion of the graduating class, students like Gianna DiPerna and her twin sister Gabriella have found comfort in knowing that there are others who share the same experiences. The sisters, along with other sets of twins like Anna and Bella Beresnyak, have been in school together since grade school. This shared experience has created a strong bond among the twins, with Bella describing it as having a “built-in best friend,” always there to support each other through their school years.
The twins in the senior class at Norwin High School come from diverse backgrounds and contribute in various ways to the school community. Some participate in the school orchestra, while others excel in challenging Advanced Placement courses or the theater department. Despite looking similar, there are sets of twins that are particularly hard to tell apart, presenting a challenge for teachers and administrators. The mix of fraternal and identical twins in the class showcases the unique skills and talents present at Norwin High School.
Gianna and Gabriella both play in Norwin High’s orchestra and plan to attend the same college, cherishing the special twin bond they share. For Anna and Bella, they have chosen to attend separate colleges that are a few hours apart, highlighting their distinct personalities and individual paths. As they prepare to graduate together and move on to the next chapter of their lives, the twins reflect on the lifelong connection they have forged with their siblings and the unique experiences they have shared throughout their school journey.
At the upcoming graduation ceremony on May 24, all 11 sets of twins will have the opportunity to mark this milestone together, celebrating not only their individual accomplishments but also the rare bond they share as twins. For the students like Gabriella, the realization that there are so many sets of twins in their grade is both surprising and exciting. The graduation ceremony will be a special moment for these twins to come together one last time before embarking on their separate paths, grateful for the special connection they have had throughout their school experience.
