Jefferson Junior High Celebrates its Class of 2011

On Saturday afternoon, family and friends gathered at  for the commencement of theclass of 2011. More than 325 students participated in the ceremony, marking their last time together as a class.

Jerome Brendel, retiring superintendent of , and Jefferson prinicipal  both made opening remarks congratulating the students for their achievements. Student Council President Michael Surles addressed the crowd, while the Jefferson Friends of Jazz band performed "Birdland" and the Jefferson Select Choir sang "In My Life" and "Breakaway."

The following students were recognized for their achievements:

Citizen of the Year: Megan Ramsden

American Legion Award: Brooke Pryor and Michael Mason

Athletes of the Year: Jenny Adams and Joe Carter

Karen Endecavageh Award: Dan Gilbert and Jessica Ley

Nancy Ehlschlaeger Award: Kasey Ford, Megan Ramsden and Anne Rock (three-way tie) and Dan Gilbert and Eric McAleer (two-way tie)

Rotary 4-Way Test Award: Stephanie Henderson and Joseph Pennino

Superintendent's Award: Fernando DelCarmen, Brian Proctor and Brooke Pryor

Prinicpal McClenahan, who is retiring at the end of the month, ended the ceremony by sharing his favorite quote from the Dr. Seuss Classic, "Oh, the Places You'll Go:"

Congratulations!
Today is your day.
You're off to Great Places!
You're off and away!

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes
You can steer yourself
any direction you choose.
You're on your own.  And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go.