Pomperaug High School's 2013 graduation was at times so joyful, then sad, then joyful again.
The Class of 2013 excelled academically and athletically and banded together when they lost one of their own — Tucker Gowen. Gowen's parents were given a posthumous diploma for their son at the Friday, June 21, ceremony.
Superintendent Dr. Frank Sippy said both he and the graduates are on a journey — they are setting out to experience life post-high school and he is retiring.
"It has been my privilege to be your superintendent for 13 years," he said. "Thank you for being such an outstanding class."
Valedictorian and Class President Mengting Zhang challenged a sentiment heard often at graduations — that these high school years are the best years of your life.
"These are not the best years of your life," she said with a smile. "If CAPT tests and portfolios make up the best years of your life, we need to talk because you guys have obviously done something wrong."
Sippy spoke glowingly and knowingly of the class he's spent so much time with over the years.
"I am confident the world will be a better place because you're in it," he said.
To share photos of you as the graduate or the graduate in your life, or to say "congratulations," visit our boards:
Jenny Dell, a Region 15 graduate and reporter for NESN filmed a video message for the students, with some surprise guests sharing their words of wisdom.
To see the graduates throw their caps in the air, check out this short but sweet video.
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