By Chuck Stewart, Jr.
Beacon- In the sweltering heat of the Saturday-morning sun, 249 Beacon High School graduates marched across the stage to receive their diplomas. The large crowd cheered, waved, and blew horns to acknowledge the class of 2008 as the traditional "Pomp and Circumstance" played.
"It’s only fitting that this beautiful class have a beautiful day for their commencement," Principal Edward Mancari said in his opening remarks. "This class has a wonderful personality. They will always be know for their outstanding school spirit."
Principal Mancari welcomed the graduates to their new life. "There’s no turning back now," he said. "Be proud of your accomplishments. Build upon this moment ... work to seek better opportunities for all." Reminding the graduates to always remember their families, as they will always be there for you.
Valedictorian Haylee Chugerman reflected back upon the class of 2008’s 17,108 hours in school since kindergarten, leading the culmination of all their hard work. She encouraged her classmates to take with them everything they learned in high school.
"We have proven countless times over the years, that despite daunting obstacles we can overcome. That we can succeed and excel inside and outside the classroom. And execute some pretty good pranks."
Chugerman was proud of the cultural diversity of the class of 2008. "Who would have thought you could have friends from Indian, Kenya, or Cuba for example. Who have different heritages, religions, traditions and customs. And here at Beacon High School we were all brought together."
Her advice to her fellow classmates: "Take the time to discover yourself, who you truly are and then hold onto it and don’t change it for anyone."
Chugerman also urged fellow graduates to make a difference in the world, ending with a quote from Anne Frank, "How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world." Take the time to enjoy life. As commencement came to a close, Superintendent Jean Parr, who is retiring, offered the following advice. "You have a lot of future ahead of you," Parr said. "Aim high and challenge yourself to pursue the impossible."
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