School Specialty proudly sponsors local prom & graduation coverage, transforming more than classrooms- through our people, our passion, and our purpose by impacting education around the world from our own backyard.
BELLVILLE — One hundred twenty-two seniors said goodbye to their high school days during Clear Fork High School commencement ceremonies on May 26.
With overcast skies and a strong breeze blowing, retiring Principal Brian Brown welcomed them to the next chapter in their lives as they celebrated the rite of passage.
Class President Zoe Daniels recognized the contributions of the class athletes and academics but specifically noted the long-lasting influence of the teachers.
Teachers who taught things such as “learn to do for yourself or learn to do without.”
“I hope we bring this diligent attitude into the future,” she told her classmates.
Other lessons learned from faculty and staff include the importance of a cooperative and peace-loving attitude, balancing work and fun, owning up to our mistakes, and finding humor.
Classmate Kasey Swank noted the day was a day of triumph but also bittersweet as the class made a new start.
“We cannot change what’s behind us, but we have the opportunity to write what’s ahead,” he said.
Referencing his late father’s motto of “control what you can control,” Swank said, “When you cannot control what happens, control how you respond.”
Quoting Matthew 6:33, Swank told his classmates to take one day at a time.
“We’re not called to live a what-if life. Don’t compare yourself to others; be the difference in your own life,” he said. “Stand firm in the Lord.”
Nate Lind was the third senior speaker. He noted that time passes quickly, and there was a time when they all felt unprepared.
“We have all felt that before,” he said. “We’re going out separate ways, but we will always be Clear Fork Colts.”
He advised the underclassmen to be present with their friends, get involved with school, and make memories.
