By Ashley McLeod, Staff Writer
Jun 10, 2013, 15:33
Despite the dreary weather, the mood was celebratory at Prince George High School, as almost 400 students were awarded with what seemed they had been waiting their whole life for: their high school diplomas.
As the class of 2013 walked across the stage one by one and received their diplomas, they were also beginning the path to the next chapter of their lives.
“Today is the day to recognize all of our accomplishments and to celebrate our achievements,” said Matthew Schneck, valedictorian and president of the Student Government Association.
“But tomorrow we must begin our journey towards our next stepping stone. The opportunities and challenges ahead of us demand well-educated individuals who come from a great foundation, a great foundation here at Prince George High School.”
Clad in green and gold, students filed into the gymnasium surrounded by family, friends, and the faculty who guided them to this day. Schneck spoke to his fellow graduates, inspiring them and motivating them to plunge into everything they do, no matter the obstacles before them.
“We scaled a mountain,” Schneck said. “Here today we stand atop this beautiful vista and we can look back on all that we’ve accomplished. From here on out, the path will grow steeper, the trail will become harsher, and the air will become even more thin. But don’t be frightened by what the future has in store.”
Salutatorian Kristopher Harrison quoted Dr. Seuss saying “Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Harrison reminded the crowd of students, faculty, family and friends to not forget how important happiness is, and how important every experience in life is.
“Cherish our experiences for what they’re worth, rather than being sad that they are no longer there,” Harrison said.
Schneck urged his fellow graduates to make the most of every minute of life and every opportunity brought upon them.
“The clock is ticking,” Schneck said. “You all have accomplished great things, but I expect more. I am not satisfied.”
While tears of both sadness and happiness filled the gymnasium at Prince George High, echoes of remembrance filled the air. Senior Marvin Massenburg Jr. was due to graduate today.
In a tragic accident in September, Massenburg lost control of his vehicle on the way to school, plunged into a swamp and drowned. When spoken of, the crowd in the gym broke into high applause for their lost classmate, friend, and brother.
“As the sun tries to break through the clouds on this gloomy day, I’m absolutely sure that Marvin Massenburg, Jr. is looking down upon us,” Schneck said.
Senior Class President Caleb Johnson told his classmates the culmination of all those years of work came on that day, and represented so much more than they realized.
“For the years and for the memories, this day represents every test we’ve ever taken, every bad and good report card, every conversation at the lunch table and every last-minute project. This day also represents that we are products of a great community.”
Quoting Steve Jobs and Aerosmith in his speech, Johnson encouraged his classmates to never stop reaching for their dreams.
“I challenge each of you to attack your future, and trust in the things you’ve learned in this chapter of your life,” said Johnson.
The graduation, which was held indoors due to weather, was standing room only, with overflow in the school’s cafeteria.
According to Superintendent Dr. Bobby Browder, graduates of the Prince George High class of 2013 received $1.1 million in scholarships.
