Clearview Regional High School graduated 377 students at its commencement on June 15 at the school’s football stadium.
Hundreds more gathered to the stadium’s bleachers on a clear day that reflected the atmosphere as students closed one chapter of their lives and opened a new one. The Class of 2024 represented Clearview’s colors with boys wearing green gowns and caps and girls in gold gowns and caps.
Several students took to the graduation stage reflect on their school lives and what the future may hold.
“In his autobiography, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said that ‘power is the ability to affect change.’ This sentiment is applicable to everyone,” said salutatorian Elanor Race. “We sometimes think that power is defined by a status or job title. But power and change don’t only refer to those big moments in life.
“All of us have within us, right now, the power to change others, our day, and ourselves,” she added. “Change happens because of one person’s actions, one person’s drive to make a difference, be it small or large. And that is enormous power.”
Several school officials were also in attendance, including the Clearview board of education, school administration and Clearview Principal Keith Brook, who also addressed the graduates.
“I can safely say that I am thrilled to be here this morning to celebrate the many accomplishments of the Class of 2024,” he noted. “To the parents and family members joining us, thank you for giving us such an outstanding class to work with.
“Your love, your encouragement and your sacrifices have played a vital role in their success, and we extend our deepest gratitude to you.”
Brook went on to thank teachers not only at Clearview High, but also the district’s middle school for helping graduates reach the finish line. A choir consisting of seniors gathered to perform during the commencement and sang a couple of pieces, including the national anthem.
Once diplomas were distributed, valedictorian Shawn Zou addressed his classmates about the day and the road ahead.
“It is a tremendous milestone to celebrate this milestone with my fellow classmates,” he remarked. “Today marks a significant transition for us as we become free to explore and achieve our destinies. This achievement would not have been possible without the support of so many special people – our esteemed administrators, teachers, mentors and friends.”
The graduates then hurled their caps into the air – per tradition – to mark the end of high school.
“Congratulations Class of 2024,” said Zou. “We did it.”
Valedictorian Shawn Zou (above) gives his speech at Clearview High School’s 2024 commencement ceremony on June 15. Graduates (clockwise from top left) took their seats in the school’s football stadium, where performances included the school band and the choir’s rendition of the national anthem.
