Katahdin High graduates 40

STACYVILLE, Maine — As the graduation clock wound down in Aroostook County with Katahdin High School’s commencement, the excitement ratcheted up for its 40 young men and women who were stepping into their futures.
Students milled around in hallways exchanging thoughts on the upcoming ceremony. Brittany Ireland said she was “really excited” while Lacey Pelletier said she could “not believe [high school] was over.” Ashley Hayes said she was “not too nervous” and Matthew Kay summarized his upcoming speech as  class valedictorian with “don’t take anything for granted.”
Principal Rae Bates expressed her pride in the “talented” group of students who were “outstanding  academically and athletically.” Bates said 20 were graduating with honors, the vast majority were going on to post-secondary education and many had earned scholarships. She then pulled together last-minute details while corralling students for the procession into the nearly 900-seat gym which had few empty seats for the ceremony as several standing guests lined the walls.
That Saturday morning was sunny and cheer-filled for students, faculty, family and friends as the playing of the traditional Pomp and Circumstance heralded their moment of change from high school students to promising young adults.
Salutatorian Richard Qualey, in a finely crafted and expertly delivered speech, spoke of the beginning of the rest of their lives and the move toward achieving their dreams. Kay, in an exceptional mark of respect to family and teachers, acknowledged their support, but gave the ultimate tribute to his late mother, Mary Kay, as his “greatest teacher.”
Chairman of the Board, Marie McNally turned the tassels after students accepted diplomas from the principal who had seen the growth of her students over the last six years. “They are certainly graduating during turbulent times and I hope the economy turns around by the time they finish college,” Bates had said prior to graduation. Perhaps this is the generation that will make a difference. Their class motto — “Do something worth remembering.”
As far as remembering goes, it was a memorable night considering the Project Graduation activities at the St. Benedict’s parish center. Starting at 6:30, it was literally time for fun and games. Gretchen Rush, co-chair with Cindy Qualey, said she had a fantastic committee of parents who raised money, secured donations and organized the event that resulted in “a wonderful turnout and a wonderful time.”
Throughout the year, Rush says, several fund-raisers from car washes, benefit suppers and knocking on doors resulted in a bonanza of gifts for the Project Grad event she terms “a great community service.”
When  playing games, winners earn “funny money” they can spend during the auction of items that range from dorm-room furniture, and rugs to TVs, DVDs and tools. She said community sponsors like Patten Drug filled “survival bags” with toiletries and all the items students need from shampoo and tissues to toothpaste and shower flip-flops.
As if that were not enough there were eight random drawings for $100 each and several drawings for gift certificates. Rush added that at midnight there was a variety show put on by teachers in costume, looking authentic as the recording group The Village People. But the coup de grace may have been the 2009 Katahdin Miss Project Graduation beauty contest. Male students dressed in gowns, makeup and wigs were styled by the female students. The winner was Evan McCarthy.
By 4 a.m. Project Graduation wrapped up after breakfast prepared by the Knights of Columbus. Rush gives full credit for the event’s success to the dedication of fellow committee members, supporters and donors.