This is a printer-friendly version of an article from Zip06.com.
06/18/2018 07:25 AMWhile celebrating the extraordinary accomplishments of the Class of 2018, North Branford High School (NBHS) class president Christopher Candelora asked his classmates to remember their town, and all the memories that create an "unbreakable bond" between them. He also took a page from Captain America's superhero book to encourage them to stay rooted in their beliefs and true to themselves.
"Remember how super you are. Remember these attributes North Branford High School gave you to move forward," said Candelora.
The NBHS Class of 2018 commencement took place on the school field under blue skies Friday, June 15. A total of 144 graduates in caps and gowns of Thunderbird purple received their high school diplomas in front of a packed stadium of family and friends; with proud parents seated in VIP sections on the field.
In his commencement speech, Candelora also discussed the legacy of the Class of 2018, including four years of repeated sports championships and titles, academic success stories and arts achievement. He noted the Class of 2018 had achieved the highest aptitude test scores "ever seen" at NBHS, with a record number of the class planning to attend two-year or four-year colleges.
Candelora said the accomplishments prove, despite North Branford being perceived as a small town on the shoreline, "...we can do anything we set our minds to, as long as we stay rooted and true to ourselves."
"No matter what the world says, no matter what anyone says, always stand up for what you believe," said Candelora. "Go against the tide when you deem it necessary and don't compromise your morals and beliefs for anyone or anything."
Valedictorian Zelda Galdenzi challenged her "extraordinary" classmates to reach for their full potential and use their voice to make a difference in the world.
"If there is one thing that I urge all of you to do ...it is to let your voice be heard. I know that, for me, this is one of the hardest and scariest things to do; but we owe it ourselves and this world," said Galdenzi, adding she has no doubt every student has the potential to succeed and be a conduit for change for the better.
"With your mind, your heart and your passion, each and every one of you sitting here has the ability to accomplish your goals and make a difference," said Galdenzi.
The hour-long graduation ceremony was celebrated with song and music. The NBHS Concert Band started up as school administration and town government representatives led the march from the building onto the field, followed by two rows of graduates entering to cheers and the music of Pomp and Circumstance. The band also played "50 Ways to Say Goodbye" and the night's recessional music. NBHS Chamber Choir opened the ceremony with the Star-Spangled Banner and later serenaded the class with Billy Joel's "And So it Goes." Throughout the night, music performance members of the graduating class shuttled from their seats with the Class of 2018 to join the ensembles for their last NBHS vocal or instrumental performances.
NBHS principal Todd Stoeffler bid the Class of 2018 farewell with the message that their future will rely on their readiness, tenacity and talent. He said their 13 years with North Branford Public Schools has equipped them with the knowledge and tools that will continue to be important post-high school. He asked them to stay "reflective and humble" and reminded them that talent comes in many forms, but it's also very subjective.
"Some people believe individuals have natural talent," said Stoeffler. "Regardless, you can have an impact on your own talent level, based on your own focus and determination."
Board of Education Chair Shawna Holzer said she had a prepared speech, but was so impressed by what she'd learned about the Class of 2018 that she was inspired to share a brief statement, instead.
"I am both shocked and inspired by your class...I had no idea what your accomplishments were," Holzer said.
While listening in on the students discussing their community of support and success, Holzer said, "I sit up here as an adult [and] wonder why we can't listen to others' perspectives. Thank you so much for showing what community can do when they work together."
Superintendent of Schools Scott Schoonmaker remarked on the Class of 2018 as a "caring, compassionate, empathetic group of students" who had also displayed many acts of being "responsible citizens, giving back to the community" during their time at NBHS.
Schoonmaker reminded the student of "the diverse talent and spirit your class possesses," and recognized how they had "...rallied around each other during the best and worst of times."
Schoonmaker also shared an analogy of two seas in Israel.
"The first sea is the Sea of Galilee, which is rich and fertile and full of fish, with children playing on its banks. The second sea, the Dead Sea, has no life, no fish and no children playing on its banks. In fact, it gives off a putrid smell. Interestingly, both seas are fed by the same river, the Jordan River," said Schoonmaker. "The difference is, that for every drop of water that flows into the sea of Galilee, the same flows out the other end. [But]for the Dead Sea; every drop that flows in, it keeps, and as a result, it's dead. You give, you live. You keep, you fail...live your life by giving and sharing in order to keep your love of learning alive."