The the North Branford High School (NBHS) Class of 2012 celebrated commencement exercises before family and friends on June 19. Find full coverage in the June 28 issue of The Sound and check back here for more photos!

Gray skies didn't dampen the spirits of the Class of 2012 during graduation ceremony on the school football. Clad in Thunderbird purple and white, 152 seniors turned their tassels across personally decorated mortarboards at the request of Class President Thomas Steinke, following the distribution of diplomas led by NBHS Teacher of the Year Nicole Lacroix.

A crowd of parents enjoyed special seating on the field near their graduates, who took center field to face a packed football stand filled with still more family and friends. The night's speakers included Steinke, Valedictorian Shannon Anderson, Superintendent of Schools Scott Schoonmaker, Board of Education Chairperson Marcey D'Onofrio, and NBHS Principal Todd Stoeffler.

Stoeffler congratulated the Class of 2012 on following the motto of "doing things the right way" to the point of having the biggest impact of any NBHS class in recent memory. He also noted the Class of 2012 had the remarkable ability to achieve many successes while remaining humble.

"You leave a legacy that cannot be defined by one event," said Stoeffler. "The Class of 2012 impacted the culture of North Branford High School like no other class."

Stoeffler cited accomplishments in sports, academics, and community service efforts.

"I thank you and congratulate you," said Stoeffler, urging each graduate to "carry yourself with confidence and remain humble," as they experience all the world has to offer, and show their "potential beyond North Branford High School."