'The future is ours'
JEFFERSON TWP — The 255 members of South Butler School District's Knoch High School class of 2018 were told to remember the lessons they learned at school and home and use them to change the world.
The advice came Friday from classmates and administrators during the school district's 60th commencement, which was held in the football stadium.
Before the ceremony began, Melissa Grantz, assistant high school principal, said students in the graduating class received a total of $2.1 million in scholarships and grants.
She asked the class members who are joining the military to stand to be recognized. They received a standing ovation from their classmates and the hundreds of people who filled the bleachers.
Honor student Jack Ibinson said graduation comes with mixed emotions as he is happy to be graduating, but sad to be leaving friends.
He encouraged his classmates to reflect on what they have learned as they move forward in life.
“Learn from the past. Continue to move forward,” Ibinson said. “Now is the time to take everything we have learned at Knoch and live life forward.”
Taylor Dzikowski, an honor student, told the class to enjoy the moment and take advantage of opportunities.
“Don't let anxiety hold you back. Enjoy the moment that is in front of you now. Don't let life pass you by. You might regret the chance you didn't take,” Dzikowski said.
Honor student Matt Gore told the class to pursue their goals with passion.“Our days at Knoch have been quite the journey. We are moving on beyond high school. There is also happiness in this transition,” Gore said. “This is the time to do what we want. Go out and do what you want. Do it with passion. We are not on this Earth long enough to second guess ourselves. The journey starts today. The future is ours. It's direction lies in our very hands.”Jesse Fesel, another honor student, said the class accomplished a lot in academics, sports and vocational training.
“This moment is what four years of high school is all about,” said Fesel. “Our class has accomplished so much in the last four years. Now that high school has become something to reflect on, remember it with fond memories.”High School Principal Todd Trofimuk also addressed the class.“Your time here was about shaping who you will be as an adult,” he said.Superintendent David Foley congratulated parents.“You've done a terrific job of raising these bright men and women,” he said.He wished the graduates luck.“This group of seniors is definitely going to have a bright future. I challenge you to take the values you've learned to help others while accomplishing your goals. Best of luck in your efforts to change the world,” Foley said.
