Central High School Honors 140 Graduates

On a beautiful Thursday evening, June 3, 2023, Central High School graduated 140 seniors at Roaring Spring Athletic Complex. The stadium was bustling as family and friends crowded in the stands and beside the field to watch the event. The class motto, "Storms Passed," seemed to be the theme of the evening as students celebrated overcoming the many obstacles faced during their high school experience.

The ceremony opened with remarks by CHS principal Stephanie Thompson.

Senior Class President Jillian Dalansky led the pledge of allegiance and members of the Central High School band performed the national anthem and alma mater.

Dalansky and Class Vice President Jarrin Butler proceeded with the lighting of a remembrance candle to honor loved ones who could not be present at the event.

Senior members of the choir then performed "And Wherever You Go" prior to the class addresses, which began with the class president's address.

Dalansky spoke to the class first, remembering the storms which had passed through their four years in high school.

"Looking back on these past four years is very bittersweet . . ." she said, adding that sometimes she feels jealous of earlier classes who had a "normal" high school experience.

She recalled that with the class's freshman year came COVID-19 and virtual classes, and with sophomore year came constant quarantines. By junior year, things had somewhat returned to normal, leading up to the class's eventual graduation.

When contemplating a class motto, she felt that "storms passed" fit perfectly, noting that many students had their own storms, as well, like tests, teachers, and waking up early. However, through the passing of those storms, the class had persevered to graduation day.

"Some of us thought we would never get through these storms in our lives, but look around, we did it," she said.

While it can be easy to focus on the bad, she said, "there's always a light at the end of the tunnel."

She went on to add that she wishes the class could have just a little more time in their high school days and encouraged her classmates not to wish their lives away, to embrace their struggles, and to appreciate each moment "whether it's a storm or a clear sky."

Class Valedictorian Rebekah Disney took the stage to address the class with a speech about finding joy and true success, encouraging the class to "do what [they] love, to stop defining [themselves] by numbers, and [not to] sweat the small stuff."

"We are all going to make mistakes in life, big and small; it is how you choose to pick yourself up that truly counts," she said.

She also encouraged the class not to let numbers define them, "instead let it be the positive impact you have on others."

Quoting Taylor Swift about the days ahead, she said, "The scary news is, you're on your own now. But the cool news is, you're on your own now."

She recalled the class's experience of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its challenges, but noted that she was grateful that in its aftermath, in-person relationships were being restored. She encouraged classmates to maintain personal relationships as they embarked on their new post-high school journeys.

Disney plans to attend Franklin and Marshall College to study biochemistry. She hopes to have a career as a cancer researcher. Salutatorian Darcy Heltzel plans to attend Iowa State University to study Food and Animal Sciences with hopes to work in dairy processing, while advocating for the dairy industry.

Three students will pursue service in the Unitied States Military: Mikayla Kelly, Army National Guard, Mason Benfer, US Air Force, and Hunter Griffith, US Army.

Principal Thompson addressed the class, applauding their resilience in adversity and ability to overcome obstacles.

"Selfishly, I would like a little more time with your class, because I really enjoyed having you as students at CHS," she said, recalling the lost time with school closures and pandemic quarantines.

"Thankfully that time passed, and one thing is for sure, you maximized your time at CHS," she said.

She went on to celebrate the class's many individual, team and group accolades: from FFA, musical arts, mock trial, and athletics, among others.

Beyond this, she recognized the class's huge contribution to "Dragon Pride."

"Collectively, you led our school with kindness, respect for others, determination to achieve your goals, and school pride that is second to none, as demonstrated by the most superior student section in District 6," Thompson said.

She explained the class's new tradition of boarding school buses for their last official field trip to the district buildings. The class proceeded through the school buildings wearing caps and gowns, being cheered on for their accomplishments, she said.

Thompson also noted that every member of the class passed the required state Civics exam, with 8 achieving a perfect score and receiving a certificate from the Department of Education.

Superintendent Dr. Betsy Baker, prior to her acceptance of the Class of 2023, congratulated the class and thanked family members and friends for their support.

While addressing the board, administration, faculty and staff, she said, "There has possibly never been a more difficult time to work in public education than that of recent years, yet you have persevered for the reward of seeing your students achieve this milestone tonight."

She encouraged the class of 2023 that they have been well equipped with knowledge and skills for today's world.

"Our wish is that you will apply the foundation of your education as Central High School Scarlett Dragons to follow your passion down your own, personal path to happiness and success," Baker said.

Spring Cove School Board President Dr. Brian Gahagan presented each senior with their diploma as Assistant Principal Cheyenne Dickson presided.

After Dr. Baker declared graduation, the audience broke out in congratulatory cheers as the students did a ceremonial cap toss.