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284 Candidates Honored At SSHS Class of 2019 Graduation

The Sulphur Springs High School Class of 2019 commencement exercises at Gerald Prim Stadium did not include a lot of fan fare; the graduation ceremony was direct and to the point, finishing in under 2 hours.
Aside from introductions by administrators and speeches from the valedictorian and salutatorian, the high school band played “Pomp and Circumstance” as the seniors entered the field in pairs. Cameron Horton sang the “Star Spangled Banner,” following the posting of colors.
Superintendent Michael Lamb opened the ceremony, noting that of the 22 graduations he’s had the pleasure to be part of, including seven in Sulphur Springs, this one is different. He now knows what it’s like to be the parent of one of the graduates.
He said he’s had the opportunity to see from an administrative as well as parent standpoint the passion with which the class of 2019 has approached their endeavors and in many instances not only succeeded, but set many new records, some personal, others district and a few state records. They too have “more community service than any other group,” Lamb said.
Lamb described the SSHS class of 2019 as a “class of champs and go-getters,” and encouraged them to continue attacking life’s challenges moving forward with the same fire they’ve attacked the many challenges this school year.
As they pursue their own goals, he reminded them to always remember they have each other, as well as the family and friends, to turn to for support when they are faced with difficulties. He said the graduates can also still count on all SSISD staff, who are “here for you as well.”
Salutatorian Maddie Millsap challenged her classmates, as well as those present at graduation, to be the best at whatever they do and pursue that which truly satisfies their hearts.
“If we all strive to be the best we can be, think of how we could change the world and everyone around us,” Millsap said.
Valedictorian Carissa Carter, during her address, noted the legacy the class of 2019 is leaving at SSHS, one that does include new records set, but also the character they’ve shown through their actions.
Carter encouraged her fellow graduates to take the lessons they have learned at SSISD with them on their life journey, challenged them to be there for each other, to with servants’ hearts, provide unfailing support of each other as they face the world.
She encouraged them to push through when they make mistakes and mess up, as people do. She reminded her classmates as they cross the threshold into adulthood and the next phase of their lives, to remember the journey is as important and the destination. The graduates’ happiness, she said, will be the results of the choices they make.
She challenged her classmates and the crowd to do everything in their power to reach their potential in all they do, because that is when they’ll be truly happiest. She asked them to consider their contributions, to make the world a better place by being in it.
SSHS Principal Derek Driver certified all 284 candidates present had met all all terms for graduation, and presented them to the school board for approval.
SSISD Board of Trustees President Robbin Vaughn affirmed the graduates. She said she could not miss the opportunity to note what “caring, patient and kind” individuals the Class of 2019 are.
“I’m encouraged to think the impact you will have as you go into the world, taking these qualities with you,” Vaughn said.
The graduates then were called to the stage by name, and after all had been affirmed, the class was dismissed by Driver, celebrating with a hat toss.

Author: KSST Contributor

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