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Focus is on students’ messages
Students will receive $1.3 million or more in education grants.
BELOIT — At the signal, the white or green mortarboard caps flew toward the ceiling like birds.
The white caps — worn by young women — and the green caps — worn by young men — gave the traditional sign that they were done with their long journey through public school.
Some 187 students took part in the graduation Sunday in the Fieldhouse at West Branch High School.
It was the 49th class to graduate from the school, according to educators.
The students were also very much aware of the future.
The class of 2009 in the district produced 10 valedictorians and two salutatorians, all of whom had the opportunity to briefly talk to their families, friends and fellow students.
School Superintendent Dr. Scott Weingart said of the graduation ceremony: “We wanted to focus on the students’ messages.”
The student speakers were aware they also were starting the rest of their education and lives.
One of the valedictorians, Ashley Beck, referenced Dr. Seuss’ last book, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go,” which also provided the class motto:
“You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself any direction you choose.
You’re on your own. And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go.”
Beck asked her fellow students, “We are only a quarter through learning. What will you do with the next 60 years?”
Another valedictorian, Zachary West, recalled the words of doctor and philosopher Albert Schweitzer about dealing with imaginations that “may be boarded up.”
West said, “Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning. Each of us has a dream. Therefore, we all have a plan.”
Valedictorian Marc Steer talked about the benefits of having good friends.
“Real friends will know you better than yourself,” he said.
Steer warned the graduates, “Don’t fall victim to fake friends. Real friends will love you.”
He added that all graduates should “decide where we are going, or someone else will.”
Dr. Weingart said the district will observe its 50th anniversary next year.
The district students this year have received $1.3 million toward higher education. That figure may increase as more grants are approved, educators said.
wilkinson@vindy.com
West Branch Class of 2009
Valedictorians: Katelynn Barnett, Ashley Beck, Brandi Bonfert, Lisa Bush; Aaron Lamancusa, Cale Lippiat, Craig Sacco, Marc Steer, Zachery Wells and Zachary West.
Salutatorians: Megan Diehl and Brent Stoffer.
Colors: Green, black and silver.
Song: “Don’t Stop Believin” by the band Journey.
Flower: rose.
Ranking: The district’s state educating rating is “excellent.”
Source: West Branch High School officials and students