NINETY-SEVEN seniors graduated from Kagman High School at American Memorial Park on Thursday, May 30.
Class valedictorian Zunica Aldan Castro was emotional and shed tears as she delivered her heartfelt address, which she dedicated to family and friends.
“It is at this very moment and these times that we must turn to those who have stood beside us through every step of the way and recognize them for all that they have done,” she said. “First and foremost I would like to thank my mom, the person who brought me into this world and not only had to work hard to pursue the role of my mother, but my father as well. Thank you for trying to make life for the both of us as best as it could be. I don’t say it that much, but I’m so grateful for everything you have done for me for these past 18 years. I know sometimes things can be hard but please mom I hope you know that everything I do I do it for us and the life we both deserve.”
As for class salutatorian Soomaitah Ferdous, she said she was glad to be able to have an in-person graduation ceremony.
“I just want to start off by saying that I’m really glad that we’re all able to coalesce on this stage and not just in our cars to celebrate this important milestone, because I’m pretty sure almost all of us were ‘robbed’ at our eighth grade promotion due to Covid-19,” she said.
Like Castro, Ferdous was grateful to her family. “To all the parents and families here today just know that every one of us on this stage is truly grateful for your unwavering support and love. So thank you for believing in us from start to finish.”
Ben Jones, school principal, reminded the students that there will no longer be any pep rallies and field days now that they are graduates.
“I told you time will fly by quick. And I know most of you are still in disbelief, but believe it, you’re here,” he said.
He hopes his students will “follow their dreams” while reminding them that they can’t merely “dream” forever.
“Dreams without planning, without action are just dreams, so stop dreaming, start living. Welcome to your next chapter in life,” he said.
He added that the students should pursue what they are passionate about. He said they should also be ready to overcome obstacles.
“Following your passion will require you to take risks though. While taking risks there will be chances for failures, but take it from the person who followed his passion. Taking risks and going through failures were all worth it. Risk-taking and failures are not the opposite of success. Instead they’re part of it,” he said.
Kagman high School students proceed to the AMP stage during their commencement exercises on May 30.
Ninety-seven students have graduated from Kagman High School this year.
Salutatorian Soomaitah Ferdous
Valedictorian Zunica Aldan Castro
