Dyer Brook, Maine – June 7, 2024 – The excitement was contagious as Southern Aroostook High School celebrated its Class of 2024 graduation ceremony, marking the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. The event, held at Southern Aroostook Community School, brought together students, families, friends, faculty, and community members to honor the achievements of this year’s graduates.
The ceremony began with the traditional processional, as the soon-to-be graduates, dressed in their caps and gowns, marched into "Pomp and Circumstance." The atmosphere was electric, filled with the pride of parents, families, and friends, and the anticipation of students ready to embark on their next chapter.
Jon Porter, the Superintendent/High School Principal of Southern Aroostook High School, delivered an opening address. Mr Porter congratulated the graduates and the parents on their accomplishments and also thanked them for the great relationship and partnership they have had together to provide a great educational experience for their children. Mr. Porter also thanked the RSU 50 school board, administration, teachers, and staff for their inspiring work with our students. He went on to talk about the class and the great things they have done here, “The class of 2024 has many things to be proud of. Many of these students tonight are graduating with honors, several of these students are graduating with several college credits. The graduates have engaged in many hours of community service in the last four years. For the second year in a row, the Houlton Rotary Club honored So. Aroostook High School with the “Service Above Self” Award for our students' commitment to community service. We have students involved in a variety of clubs and sports teams, they play in the school band, they participate in the drama club, they are also involved in student government. Many of our students are also balancing part-time jobs. They have made a positive impact on the school and community. We have been very fortunate to work with these students.”
Class of 2024 speakers included; Destin Joiner, Bailey Vose, Tristen Hardy, and Cami Shields. All four of the speakers shared their gratitude to their classmates, teachers, friends, and their families. Each shared special experiences they had with their classmates and lessons learned while attending Southern Aroostook Community School. Cami Shields reflected on the shared experiences and memories of the graduating class and shared this advice with her classmates, “over the past 14 years, I have learned so much about who you all are as people. Some of you have huge hearts, while others aren’t afraid to tell it as it is. Some of you are incredible athletes, while others prefer music or enjoying the outdoors. Each one of you is special. Even though we are all different, I think one thing we all share is that we know who we are and we aren’t afraid to show it. Never forget who you are, and the person you want to be.”
The keynote speaker, Terri Slauenwhite, So. Aroostook High School English Teacher, captivated the audience with a motivational speech that highlighted the importance of perseverance, being kind, the importance of surrounding yourself with people who have your best interests, enjoying the small things in life, and the fact that this community will continue to be here for them as they start their new journey in life. She states, “you are never alone in this world. You have your family, your friends, this community, and the faculty at this school who have your back. This is your safety net and we are here to help you if and when you need it.”
Following the speakers, members of the Class of 2024 sang a moving rendition of “I’ll Always Remember You” by Hannah Montana.
Special awards and scholarships were then presented to students who excelled academically, demonstrated exceptional leadership, and contributed significantly to the school community.
The highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of diplomas. As each graduate's name was called, cheers and applause filled the gymnasium, celebrating the culmination of their hard work and dedication.
The ceremony concluded with the traditional cap toss, symbolizing the graduates' transition from high school students to alumni. The air was filled with excitement and a sense of accomplishment as caps soared and students embraced, celebrating their success.
Parents and families gathered outside the venue for photos and celebrations, capturing the joyous moment. The Class of 2024 then celebrated with parents and friends at Project Graduation which included live music, dancing, fireworks, food, games, and prizes.
As the Class of 2024 steps into the future, they carry with them the knowledge, experiences, and values instilled by their time at Southern Aroostook High School. The entire Southern Aroostook Community School community wishes them success and happiness in all their future endeavors.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024!