Special to the Pioneer Times
STACYVILLE — “Unique” is how Brittany Landry, Katahdin High School valedictorian, described the Class of 2008, during her commencement address on Saturday.
Contributed photo/Northwood Studio
COUGAR CLASS OF 2008 — Striking a pose in the halls of Katahdin High before heading to graduation exercises are seniors, from left, Cameron McNally, Adam Tarr, Joshua Lake, Christopher Allen and Dylan Glasscock.
And unique it is. Not only is the senior class of 2008 full of diverse and talented individuals, but with only 21 graduates, it is the smallest class ever to graduate from KHS, and 11 of these 21 students graduated with honors.
A standing-room-only crowd of family and friends filled the KHS gymnasium to celebrate the success of these graduating seniors and their future, and reminisce with them, as well.
Consistent with their class motto of “One Life to Live — Live it Well,” Landry reminded everyone that “life is what is what you make it.” She encouraged her fellow graduates to “live life with no regrets … apologize for what you should, and learn to live with what you can’t change.”
Using President Abraham Lincoln as an example, Class President Jasmine Cyr reminded her classmates that ”average people from small towns can do great things.”
Class Salutatorian Alexandria Olsson also encouraged the senior class that “no matter what your dream is, go for it.”
Before conferring their diplomas upon them, Principal Rae Bates wished all of the KHS graduates well, “particularly in these tough economic times.”
As many of them are aware, this year’s high school graduates have entered a world of economic strain. The College Board estimates that college tuition rose by about 6 percent last year, outpacing wages, inflation and financial aid. Because students are taking longer to finish college, the cost of their education is increasing even more.
In addition to Landry, Olsson and Cyr, students who graduated with honors were Reba Anderson, Thomas Anderson, Sarah Chong, Caitlin Duffy, Maggie McNally, Jasmine Pelletier, Felisha Robinson and Kayla Stevens.
Rounding out the KHS senior class of 2008 are Christopher Allen, Dylan Glasscock, Joshua Lake, Colby McDonald, Cameron McNally, Cody McNally, Ashley Parker, Jenna Pelkey, Aubrey Splan and Adam Tarr.
Jasmine Pelletier was selected class marshall. Serving as ushers for the KHS commencement exercises were underclassmen members of the National Honor Society.
Contributed photo/Northwood Studio
FOREVER FRIENDS — Among graduates from Katahdin High School June 7 were, from left, Alexandria Olsson, Ashley Parker and Brittany Landry.
Contributed photo/Northwood Studio
THE TIME OF THEIR LIVES — Caught up in the moment are members of the graduating Class of 2008 at Katahdin High School, from left, Sarah Chong, Jasmine Cyr, Kayla Stevens and Reba Anderson.
Contributed photo/Northwood Studio
THAT’S MY GIRL — Honor student Maggie McNally has a picture taken with her mother Colette prior to commencement exercises June 7 at Katahdin High School.
Contributed photo/Northwood Studio
PROUD MOM — Melanie Morgan shares a special moment with her graduating son, Dylan Glasscock prior to commencement exercises June 7 at Katahdin High School.
