Yesterday’s seniors are today’s graduates as 245 members of the Class of 2013 received diplomas Friday night at Winnacunnet High School. Family and friends of the “lucky 13” class filled the stands and balconies of the gymnasium for the ceremony, which began at 6 p.m.
Chris Muns, chairman of the school board, offered greetings to the class from the community that has helped to educate them. “You can pay us back by making sure you do what you like and like what you do,” he said.
"Be alert to the significance of a positive attitude." This was the advice given by English teacher Carol Downer, the guest speaker at the event.
Senior Class President Nate Williams asked graduates to look forward to their 10th or 20th reunion and envision the sort of world they want live in, then become “foot soldiers in building a more just and peaceful world.”
Valedictorian Heather Laroche said she believes the number 13, so often considered unlucky, would instead bring luck to the class. She was born on a Friday the 13th. The next Friday the 13th is in September, she noted, which is exactly 13 weeks from graduation day. “By then, we will all have started our new lives, scattered across the country.”
The Winnacunnet High School Chamber Singers, directed by Pat Moore, sang “In My Life,” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney. Presentation of diplomas was by Superintendent Robert Sullivan, with congratulations offered by Principal William McGowan.
The Winnacunnet High School Band, directed by Tony Cyrus, played Pomp and Circumstance during the processional. The recessional was “I’m Shipping Up to Boston.”
