Graduation
a time for laughter and tears at Washburn
Staff Writer
WASHBURN – Graduations are an emotional experience for all involved, as students transform from children in need of daily guidance evolve into adults ready to make their own decisions. Such was the case June 11, as the Class of 2010 bid farewell to Washburn District High School, thanking friends, family and school staff for their many years of love and support – emphasized with the occasional laughter and assorted tears.
The ceremony got under way with Senior Class President Amber Reed welcoming everyone to the event, followed by the presentation of gifts and teacher recognition led by class members Jessica O’Donnell and Sydney Beckwith. Carnations were presented to various faculty for their guidance and support throughout the years, with special recognition given to a much-loved English teacher.
“I truly appreciate the kindness you’ve shown,” said retired English teacher, Richard Landeen, as he reminded students where he could now be found. “Keep in touch. I’m on Facebook.”
Principal Ricky Bragg made students and the audience laugh when, upon receiving his gift from the class, he began to sit with the graduates on stage, pretending he’d open his gift then and there – then stood and left the stage, carrying the large gift back to his own seat in the audience.
Second Honor Essayist Felicia Cochran struggled with her presentation, pausing to fight back tears.
“We love our small community and the support everyone’s given our school,” said Cochran, chocking with emotion, as she recalled how the community raised the $13,000 necessary to send the Destination ImagiNation team to Tennessee and how the trip wouldn’t have been possible without such remarkable citizens helping raise the funds.
First Honor Essayist Justin Howe stressed the importance of “doing what makes you happy.”
“You are the master of your life; ultimately, it’s your decision. Don’t let others get to you,” said Howe.
Howe told classmates to “pay no mind to people who talk behind your back. In doing so, it only means you’re two steps ahead of them.”
“Being happy brings out the best in those around you.
This year’s salutatorian address was provided by Sydney Beckwith, stating high school had been a “rough ride for all of us” – one made easier through sound friendships.
“Good friends are a must have in high school. I appreciate the support I’ve received from the class and the entire school,” said Beckwith, recalling what it was like when she first moved to the area and began attending school in Washburn.
She acknowledged how difficulties arise but with patience, it’s possible to find a way to get along.
“We can’t be one big happy family all the time but we can get along,” Beckwith said.
Beckwith said it didn’t seem that long ago everyone started out in school and now it’s done.
“Some may not feel ready but you’re more prepared than you think,” said Beckwith, adding “it’s ok to be outwardly different.”
“It’s my honest hope each graduate realizes their own potential,” said Beckwith, quoting Spock of “Star Trek” fame, as she said “Live long and prosper – take this bit of encouragement and live it.”
Cody Frank provided the valedictorian address, sharing heartfelt memories with those in attendance.
“This is a day of mixed emotions – a moment of liberation to some,” began Frank. “Graduation day I’ve anticipated since the day I first stepped onto the bus with my superhero lunchbox. Now it’s here.”
Frank said the past 18 years “went by in the blink of an eye.”
“I couldn’t have done it without everyone’s support,” said Frank, as he went on to list the many people – faculty, friends and family – who provided him guidance, friendship and love over the years that enabled him to achieve his goals.
“Mom, you’ve been my biggest inspiration. You’re the epitome of a good mother; you’ve molded me into who I am today,” Frank said.
Next, Assistant Principal Ron Ericson substituted for Andrea Hallett (who was unable to attend graduation due to illness) for the presentation of scholarships. In addition to thousands of scholarships being awarded to various members of the WDHS Class of 2010, a special award created by Frank Hallett was also presented to a student who had shown the most growth in high school.
“Frank Hallett established this award for the student who’s overcome substantial obstacles in obtaining their diploma. This year’s recipient is Tasha Flaherty,” said Ericson, as he presented Flaherty with an ID bracelet for her accomplishment.
Cousins Rachel Donnelly and Matthew Donnelly, both members of this year’s graduating class, led into the Parent Recognition segment of the ceremony, reading a poem defining teenagers, including references to teen sleeping habits and other behaviors.
“A teen sleeps until noon on Saturday when the lawn needs mowing,” said Rachel Donnelly.
Students then joined parents in the gymnasium, presenting roses to their mothers/fathers for the love and support given them throughout their educational journey, with both tears and laughter being shared by friends and family as they hugged and congratulated the students, stopping for an occasional photo.
The evening concluded with Superintendent Ed Buckley, Bragg and Erickson presenting this year’s graduates with their diplomas.
And with the turn of their tassels, Washburn’s Class of 2010 donned sunglasses as they danced their way into their future to Lil Wayne’s “Let It Rock,” joined on the school’s lawn by loved ones as the evening ended with laughter and tears of happiness.
Staff photos by Kathy McCarty
FAREWELL HUG – Retired English teacher Richard Landeen gets a farewell hug from Washburn senior Jessica O’Donnell as the rest of the class looks on during the teacher recognition portion of the 2010 graduation festivities.
TEARFUL MOMENT – Several tears were shed during the parent recognition segment of the Washburn graduation, held June 11, as students and parents gathered for photos and lots of hugs. Pictured from left are: mother Ann King, graduate Alison “Ali” King and Doug King, father.
HUGS and high fives were plentiful as the Class of 2010 celebrated upon graduating June 11 in Washburn. Here Sydney Beckwith (back to the camera) gets a congratulatory hug from fellow classmate Curtis Thompson.
CURTIS THOMPSON gets help from a loved one as he straightens his mortar board during the parent recognition portion of the WDHS graduation ceremony.
TASHA FLAHERTY was honored as the graduate who had shown the most progress during her years at WDHS. Here she accepts her diploma from Superintendent Ed Buckley.
PRINCIPAL RICK BRAGG had graduates laughing as he pretended to take a seat amongst them in order to open his gift from the class. With Bragg are seniors Cody Frank and Felicia Cochran.
COUSINS GRADUATE – Rachel Donnelly and Matthew Donnelly, graduating cousins at Washburn District High School, shared the podium during the parent recognition portion of this year’s commencement exercises.
SCHOLARLY AWARD – Assistant Principal Ron Ericson presents WDHS graduate Justin Howe with the SAD 45 Teacher’s Association Scholarship.
CODY FRANK gave an emotional valedictory address during the June 11 ceremony.
