Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
Serving Gogebic, Iron and Ontonagon Counties
TOWARD THE end of a May 24 commencement ceremony at A.D. Johnston High School in Bessemer, Kimberly Ruotsala, at left, receives a hug from her pal, Cody Shepherd.
By PAMELA JANSSON
Bessemer - Twenty-six students graduated from A.D. Johnston High School during a commencement ceremony on May 24.
Held in the high school gym, the ceremony included words of wisdom from top students and officials, along with a presentation of a flower from each student to a loved one.
"Embrace every second," said Nicholas Heikkila, 7-12 dean of students and administrative athletic director, in his welcome. He also told students to "be useful" and "be kind."
"Wow, we did it," said salutatorian Isaak Fyle as he provided an additional senior welcome.
"This whole thing feels surreal."
Valedictorian Vincent Matthew Triggiano, also the class vice president, said that the class had survived every obstacle from the COVID-19 pandemic to exams.
"We all have potential for success," said Triggiano, who told students to pick their own paths, to push themselves and be positive.
"You should know that your family and friends are very proud of you," said guest speaker Jeannine Simcoe, the junior/senior high school secretary.
She kidded that it might be a good day to ask them for money, but advised they also give loved ones a hug.
"Be open to learning from everyone you meet," said Simcoe. "Turn failures into stepping stones. Remember that success is defined by the positive impact you have on the world."
"I would hope that you learned that school isn't necessarily about winning or losing or A's or B's, but about building relationships," said Superintendent Richard Matrella who is also the K-12 principal for Bessemer Area Schools.
"Embrace every opportunity with enthusiasm and dedication," added Matrella. "The world awaits you. Go forth and make it extraordinary."
James Partanen school board president, presented most of the diplomas, with Heikkila standing by to greet students, along with Matrella, Simcoe, senior advisor Brittany Bennetts and School Board members.
Two board members gave diplomas to their own children: Eric Stanislawski to his daughter, Brooke Ashley Stanislawski, and Beth Steiger to her daughter, Greta Eve Steiger.
Josh and Briana Kepich, band and vocal guides, led students in providing several selections of music, including the songs "Antares" by Richard Saucedo and "Sign of the Times" by Harry Stiles.
The night ended with the traditional tossing of graduation caps in the back of the gym.
