Small graduating class draws hundreds to East Grand HS

Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/
Elna Seabrooks
SETH CROPLEY, right, makes a unique exit from the graduation ceremony at East Grand
High School.
By Elna Seabrooks
Staff Writer
    DANFORTH — There were only nine East Grand graduating seniors but they nearly filled the gym with well over 250 family, friends, teachers and well wishers last Thursday evening. Principal David Apgar described the graduating class: “It’s small. But, it has character. And, the perception may be about academics, but our graduates are students of character without a doubt.”
    Most had goals of post-secondary education and all had some ideas about their futures in informal conversations before the ceremony. Valedictorian Aaron Henn, a National Honor Society student, laid out his future in just one sentence. “I’m going to work this summer, then go to the University of Maine at Orono and then work on my Ph.D. in psychology in four years.” Henn said he had gotten his “academic act together” in his junior year and “just finished it off this year.”
    Leah Cleland said graduation meant “a whole new chapter” was beginning in her life and she would be  going to Thomas College in Waterville to study forensic psychology. “My big dream is to work for the FBI someday. I’ve always been good at judging people’s character and I love the cop shows,” Cleland explained.
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
CONGRATS — Jordan Crone gets his diploma and a hug from Kristen Wittine, E. Grand’s senior class adviser.
    And, Ashley Wardwell’s family was justifiably proud that she did not give up on completing her studies. “I’m happy. I’m the first one in my family to graduate from high school,” said Wardwell who managed to give birth to a baby girl, Kaylee, in her senior year without dropping out of school. She said she plans to “eventually go to college and study early childhood development.”
    In the farewell address, Johnathan Massey, a junior, told the audience that despite its small size, the graduating class had as much character and integrity as any larger school and the graduating seniors had left their trademark upon the school. Massey also said they had objectives, motivation and skills to succeed in life as they crossed from adolescence to adulthood. Massey will complete his senior year at the Maine School of Science and Mathematics.
    Guest speaker Kenneth Fredette, a third-generation graduate who is now a military lawyer, reminded the students that their lives will be defined by a lifetime of decisions. And, he encouraged them to become lifelong learners since the world is changing every day. “Pursuing the rewards of discovering the wonders of the world through an education is something that will benefit you the rest of your life,” he said.
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
CENTER STAGE — Elizabeth Gilman takes the stage to deliver her remarks as first honor essayist.
    Apgar said a student had asked him “If homework is a job, when do we get paid?” His snappy response was “right now!” Then, he and other teachers handed out several thousands of dollars in scholarship money.
    There were cheers and an element of excitement in the air as student’s names were called to the podium to accept funds for college. Everyone who applied for scholarships received something according to Kristen Wittine, senior class adviser. Several students received multiple awards.
    One emotional moment came as Wittine presented a $500 award to Nicholas Kinney from a memorial fund to honor school bus driver Patsy Day who passed away a few years ago after a brief bout with cancer.     Kinney was also party to another poignant moment when he and fellow graduate, Jordan Crone, acknowledged several staff members who had been with them since kindergarten. The two then presented a floral arrangement to Marilyn Stoddard, head custodian, for “being behind the scenes for every school event.” Kinney said, “We appreciate her dedication to the students.”
    Following graduation, Stoddard said: “I am so touched. It’s the first time I’ve been honored this way in the 10 years I have been here. This is amazing; I love it and they all become my kids.”
Houlton Pioneer Times Photo/Elna Seabrooks
FAREWELL — An audience  member reaches out to Ashley Wardwell as the graduates left the E. Grand stage for the final time. Behind her is Nicholas Kinney. 
    As the ceremony concluded, the students stood and were presented a final time to the audience. In their youthful exuberance they tossed their caps in the air, celebrating another rite of passage.
    More high-spirited fun was still ahead with Project Graduation to follow later in the gym. Wittine said businesses from Lincoln to Houlton had made donations toward food, entertainment, prizes like microwaves, flat screen TVs, sheets and personal items for college. “We’re proud of this class,” she said smiling.