Weymouth Class of '16 Told to Find Their Own Success

Weymouth, MA — For the Weymouth High School Class of 2016, Saturday’s graduation was a final lesson. It was a lesson on what they learned, what to expect, and what they should do now that they are no longer restricted to the hallways of the high school.

Class president Danny Beaton, kicked things off, reflecting on past four years.

“We’re going to look back on these four years and think of your firsts. Your first high school game, your first audition, your first time getting an A on a test, your first time getting an F on a test, your first big school dance,” Beaton said. “Sadly, you’ll look back on lasts. Your last lunch with your friends, your last class with a teacher who inspired you to do your best, your last game, your last time getting changed for gym, and the last time seeing the faces you grew up with.”

Many speakers, such as class salutatorian Brian Warner told the class to simply be themselves.

“We are not given life to become mindless drones programed to satisfy the expectations of others. We cannot do justice by giving up our individuality. We owe it to ourselves to as well as our world to define our lives,” Warner said.

“Stop believing that being who you are, living your life the way you want to is selfish. Be unique and pursue life in the way you want to.”

The theme of nostalgia was echoed by Valedictorian Kevin Lyons.

“There are no more 47-minute intervals, no more scheduled lunches to discuss the day’s news and gossip, no more games and matches under the lights, no more cruises or proms, the final senior event is occurring before our eyes,” Lyons said.

He ended his speech by telling his classmates to branch out and become stronger with every mistake.

Superintendent Kenneth Salim, who came to Weymouth when the graduates were preparing to enter high school, reflected on his final commencement ceremony before leaving to become the Cambridge superintendent.

“You and I have been on parallel paths for the past four years,” Salim said. Four years ago, you were preparing to come to high school. Four years ago, I too was in a similar position of transition. I was preparing to join Weymouth and looking forward to learn about the wildcat way.”

“I’ve come to know a Weymouth community that is committed to helping you become the impressive people you’ve become today.”

Salim left the class with three pieces of advice: Ask for help, be open to change, and thank those who support you on the journey.

Finally, Principal Peter Haviland reflected on the class’ achievements, remarking on the 28,000 community service hours.

“You have done what we’ve asked of you and you have pursued success,” Haviland said. “As you leave this campus today, leave knowing that we are proud of you, impressed by you, and believe in you. We are counting on you to do your best."