The Mansfield Senior High School Class of 2019 thanked their families, teachers and coaches Saturday morning before turning the page to the next chapter of their lives.
One hundred and fifty graduates received their diplomas during a 10 a.m. commencement in Pete Henry Gym. The class leaves with $3,008,176 in postsecondary scholarships.
“There is a universal truth that everything eventually ends – the last day of summer, the final chapter of a good book, parting with a good friend,” said valedictorian Megan Supron. “Today we say goodbye to everything familiar. We will hold onto memories of Mansfield Senior High School but we must not hold onto the past. We must move on and create new memories.”
Supron expressed thanks for “all of the love and support” she and her classsmates had received from teachers, family and coaches.
That gratitude was echoed by salutatorian Kelsi Spayde, who said, “We would not be here without you.” Spayde said the Class of 2019 shared a strong sense of acceptance and unity. “We have accomplished so much for ourselves and our community. There is no doubt in my mind that we all can be successful in our endeavors,” she said.
Dr. Milton Folson, Senior High principal, offered the graduates four points of advice. He urged them to:
— Realize your worth and your value through work ethic, commitment and other positive traits.
— Use past experiences as the foundation for the future.
— Be prepared for – and not a victim of – change.
— Be humble and show appreciation for those who will help them on your journey,
“An educator told me early in my life that ‘Tough times don’t last but tough people do,’” he said.
Superintendent Brian Garverick called attention to the many scholarships and awards the class had received during the traditional Class Day program on Thursday. “It was a great display of hope for this class and our nation. It was evident that these young men and women have taken advantage of the opportunities given them,” he said.
Garverick recognized the achievements of virtually every member of the graduating class, asking them to stand if they had participated in any of 20 areas that included Career Tech, athletics, National Honor Society, band, orchestra, choir, science fair and several others. The superintendent added his thanks to all families and other community members for the support they gave to the graduates.
“I close now with one piece of advice for you — and for all of us: Take time to look up from your phones to the beauty of the world around you,” Garverick said. “Thank you. It’s a great day to be a Tyger. Come back and see us.”
Dr. Folson certified that the Class of 2019 had met all requirements for graduation and board of education president Renda Cline accepted the class on behalf of the board.
Perrell Cameron is president of the Class of 2019. Other officers include: Elizabeth Pounds, vice president; Taylor Bush, treasurer; Bre’Ashia Daniels, public relations; Nazaria Dismuke, secretary, and Jakobe Reese, public relations.
Source, Photo: Mansfield City Schools
