RHS Grads March Through the Heat to Get Their Diplomas

There was plenty of pomp.

And plenty of circumstance.

And plenty of heat.

Yes, the temperature was still in the high 90s when the 137th commencement exercises kicked off at this evening. And to a thunderous applause, the sound of the traditional graduate music and the hum of industrial fans, members of the Class of 2012 looked like they were barely breaking a sweat and they marched forward to accept their diplomas.

The grads totaled 225.

RHS Principal Eric Baim delivered a spirited charge to the graduates. His address was followed by inspired speeches by Student Council President Shannon Lipe, Salutatorian Jennifer Mears and Valedictorian Chelsea McDonnell.

Superintendent of Schools Mary Conway, flanked by state and local officials, also addressed the grads.

Check out Vernon Patch on Thursday morning for more graduation coverage.