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Pride permeates Poland memories
Gallery
By Sean Barron
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
POLAND - Some of Christina Rogers’ fondest memories are school related, even though they took place far from school.
Christina spent her high school years in marching band and proudly recalled having performed at Disney World in Orlando, Fla., as well as in Myrtle Beach, S.C., during her freshman year.
The Poland Seminary High School student found herself not marching, but walking to receive her diploma during Sunday’s Class of 2009 commencement ceremony in the school’s fieldhouse.
“I’m very proud of myself and my classmates and everything they’ve accomplished,” said Christina, who also is valedictorian of her class. “I’m very excited.”
Her plans include enrolling in the fall at Notre Dame University in South Bend, Ind., where she intends to study anthropology. Also on her radar screen is playing trumpet in that school’s marching band.
Meanwhile, it will soon be time for her to enjoy the summer and spend time with friends, she said.
She was one of 221 graduates to receive diplomas during the 90-minute commencement exercises.
“I’m feeling happiness, but sad at the same time,” said Bret Bole, with diploma in hand.
This summer may see Bret visiting Cedar Point or taking a vacation, but spending time with friends also is a top priority, he explained.
Bret’s goals include attending Youngstown State University in August to major in mechanical engineering, with a long-term goal of becoming an aerospace engineer, he said, adding that his best school memories will likely include many experiences with friends and certain teachers.
Delivering the keynote address was Edward Kempers, principal of Poland McKinley Elementary School.
Kempers, who’s taught 23 years in the district, said he remembered many of the graduates’ from their kindergarten days, and used humor to speculate on what school must of felt like for them then.
He cited hard work, teachers, the community and family as factors that can go a long way toward ensuring more success for students. It’s important for the graduates to thank their parents and others who made sacrifices on their behalf, Kempers told a packed room.
After high school, an increasing amount of responsibility for continued success will fall on the graduates’ shoulders. But constructive sacrifices they make will pay dividends in the long run, Kempers continued.
It’s imperative the students work hard, stay in touch with family and be open to new friendships and opportunities, yet allow time for fun and themselves, he advised. In addition, class members need to understand that it’s all right to change their minds regarding college and career.
“Go where your heart tells you to go,” Kempers added.
The graduates should realize that they will make mistakes; the important thing is to “admit to them, learn from them and move on,” he said.
The ceremony also featured remarks from Christina, who gave the valedictorian speech, and Superintendent Dr. Robert L. Zorn. Vocal selections were performed by the Senior Seminary Singers and high school band.
Poland Seminary High is the largest school in the state to have had every student pass the annual Ohio Graduation Test every year since it was first administered 17 years ago, noted Laura Stacy, a board of education member.