MARS HILL, Maine — Friday, June 12, saw 32 young adults march into the Central Aroostook High School gymnasium for their graduation ceremony. Wendy Grass played the processional music while Jordan Canney, Class Marshal, led the graduates.
Principal Kay York spoke to the graduates, many of whom she taught in first grade, and urged them, “Pursue excellence in all you do. Don’t let obstacles hinder you from reaching your dreams, your goals, your fullest potential. I am confident that what you have accomplished in high school is only just the beginning of many happy milestones and accomplishments in your life. Go forth and change your world!”
Valedictorian Sean Brock and Salutatorian Emily Pickance spoke together and wanted to share some of their hopes for the future with the following advice:
“Procrastination is NOT your friend, but it’s possible to be acquaintances. You are a work in progress – don’t expect to get everything right the first time – or maybe even the second time.
“Parents are definitely smarter than they appear (it’s that whole life experience thing rearing its lovely head.
“Graduating from high school is pretty much like earning your kindergarten diploma – of course everyone is proud and you should be too – but, you need more to make it in the ‘real world’, because this is only a step along the way of life.
“No one is holding you back – you are the only one who can limit yourself.”
They continued with, “I hope that you go to college and you take it seriously. No pressure, but what you do there will greatly impact the rest of your life. And if you don’t go to college that’s okay too, just always remember to work hard no matter what you do. So fellow graduates, as you slip off into your futures, feel free to use our two weapons wherever life may take you: remember to laugh, and to say thank you.”
There will be 26 members of this class that are continuing their education at various colleges. Three are entering the military and three are going into the workforce.
There were 90 scholarships totaling almost $50,000 handed out during Class Night and Graduation.
Superintendent Elaine Boulier also spoke to the graduates. “You are ready to go out into the world to meet the challenges that await you,” she said. “There are limitless possibilities and promises, and life will take each of you on a unique journey. Be thankful every day for the blessings that come your way, have faith, and remember – life is about choices.
“Some choices will be fairly easy – others will be quite difficult,” Boulier added. “Consider the long-term impacts of your choices, what they might mean for others, and remember that every choice matters. Choose to be honest and respectful in your everyday interactions. Choose to work hard, stay focused, and persevere. Choose to gain as much knowledge as you can – never miss an opportunity to learn something. Choose to laugh often!”
Presenting diplomas to the graduates were Brian Harris, chairman of the board of directors; Boulier; York; and Nola Pendexter, class adviser.
Class President April Santiago closed with. “We have been waiting for this moment since the first time we stepped into this building – six years ago. Six years worth of memories and laughs. Six years we will never forget. I am so proud to call all of you – not only my classmates – but my family. I am honored to have all of you in my life.
“The memories I have with you will always be remembered and cherished. You guys are a great group of people and I hope the very best for every one of you,” she concluded.
