Happy graduates mark the end of their high school years with the traditional tossing of their mortar board caps.
As the 192 graduating seniors made their way to the sports field for graduation ceremonies, you could sense their excitement. This is the next big step in the lives of these young people, and several speakers referenced the idea of change and possibilities in their comments to the outgoing students.
Sarah Whitehouse, the class valedictorian, spoke about how being unsure of what you want to do ultimately is okay. Change is going to happen, and while the future is a little terrifying to some and knowing that making the right choices may not always be easy, they should recognize that nothing is permanent and anything is possible.
Speakers included Salutatorian Emily Brydges, Assistant Superintendent Michelle Zawawi, Superintendent Timothy Van Tasel and Class President Connor Boudreau. Connor, who will be attending the Coast Guard Academy in the fall, was presented his CGA appointment papers by 2011 graduate Sean Bennett, a Coast Guard veteran.
The high school band, directed by Joe Migliore, played Ease on Down the Road from The Wiz and Jack Burke and Laura Drinkwater sang For Good from the musical Wicked to the delight of the audience.
Jordan Dion (left) and Kathy Lightle are pictured at the Suffield High School graduation on June 11.
Superintendent Van Tasel ended the speeches by calling the class “authors of promise,” and he expressed excitement for their future. Best of luck to all the graduates!