Weepy Memories, Steamy Gowns and a Diploma

Here we are again. Another year, another graduation.

The class of 2010 has graduated and among the 376 "candidates" my brother was one of the students to "survive" the Scarsdale school system.

I myself graduated in 2007, and aside from that year, I had sat through previous graduations as a member of the high school Wind Ensemble. 

This year, I had a reason to go other then for myself, sit in the bleachers with my family and neighbors, and watch those I've known for years take home a diploma.

Principal John Klemme commenced the ceremony with the national anthem and Superintendent Michael McGill completed the ceremony with his final words. 

The class advisors Maria Valentin and Bruce Henry gave inspirational comments with a light-hearted feel, which was a nice change of pace considering the magnitude  and typical tone for this kind of event. 

There were of course, a variety of speeches and comments from students praising the members of the graduating class in between that had various reactions from the crowds around me. 

I asked proud parents to reflect on their experiences and to my surprise, some responses were brutally honest.

One woman, who asked to remain anonymous, said, "I think it was a very good secular education, but lacked community values, and lacked an embracing aspect. There seems to be an issue with caring for others, a lot of kids here have a sense of entitlement. I am very emotional though, today my son graduates."

Susan Groner, another parent who has three children, one in college and one who graduated this year said, "It's been a good four years. My son had a good time academically and socially. It's sad that he's leaving high school, but it's time to move on. It's definitely exciting. Now he's on his own!" she added with a laugh.

Other parents had the exact same reactions; "Of course I'm excited," said one parent, "my kid's graduating!"

Overall, the ceremony was great because the weather was perfect. The sun was shining, and unlike previous years the heat was not overwhelming.

Congratulations to the class of 2010, and good luck next year!