Mill Creek Beacon - Your Hometown News Source

Congratulations to an amazing class of seniors. You have dedicated 13 years of education to get to this point. Persistence and determination brought you this far and will continue to guide you into the future. You truly are a class like no other.

As the first graduating class in the state ever to have your traditional graduation ceremony changed to a virtual setting, you are also the first graduating class to finish the last months of your high school career remotely.

Never before have our high school seniors been called to adjust and adapt as they step into the future the way you have.

The Class of 2020 has been chosen to bring purpose, hope, passion, and vision to the future because of what you have overcome this year.

You faced the unmet expectations of what your senior year was supposed to look like with a determination and strength that will carry you way beyond this time. I know it has not been fun, and at times has even been sad. The lessons you are learning and the inner strength and character you are exhibiting are part of the foundation for how you will adapt and lead us into the future. You have the willpower and energy to become great leaders, and you have a national stage.

You may not have a traditional commencement ceremony held locally, but you are being celebrated across the nation and the world. The virtual commencement speeches and ceremonies flooding the internet are proof you have a nation behind you that believes in you, celebrates you, and wants you to be recognized for your accomplishments.

As your superintendent, I cannot express how very proud I am of all of you. The way you have handled this challenging situation with poise is a tremendous joy to me.

I agree with the great Olympic gymnast Simone Biles who said, “A ceremony doesn’t change anything. You have already won.” You are gold medal winners in my book. You have won. You have finished your high school education like champions.

Congratulations! I cannot wait to hear all the wonderful things you will accomplish in the future.