3 days ago
AHS graduates poised to continue their story
May 30—There was a lot of tradition on hand Friday night during the 149th commencement ceremony at Austin High School.
One of those traditions is the video of the high distinction students, taking turns as they go and exemplifying the achievements marked by the year's defining high school moment.
The quotes were many and encompassing and included such examples as:
"Each of us is a piece of a puzzle."
"Working hard has shaped me into the person I am today."
"We still have pieces to place."
Each of the graduates who spoke during the video touched on moments of time lived by the graduates throughout their journey through the Austin Public Schools system, something that was marked by administration, who lauded the Class of 2025 for meeting extraordinary challenges and coming out stronger on the other side.
"I just don't see students in caps and gowns," Principal Matt Schmit said. "I see stories."
He noted how the graduates overcame these challenges and celebrated successes, but Schmit also took a moment to touch on fear. Not because it was defining in some way, but rather because of how the students approached and overcame the fear that can arise from so many sources.
Running parallel is the courage that defines the student's poise in walking past fear to achieve their goals.
"It's a sign of stepping into something bigger," Schmit said. "Don't let fear write your story."
While graduation tends to be a moment in time leading into a new moment, Superintendent Dr. Joey Page spoke of celebration.
He touched on how this class was instrumental in the growth of enrollment and graduates at the school and how they have set their legacy.
"Tonight is about joy, pride and celebrating the Class of 2025," he said. "This moment is the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance and growth."
"Success begins with being present," he later added.
He finished his speech by urging students to go out and make their mark on the world, because this portion of the story telling the tale of their time at AHS has already been written.
"You've already made your mark on Austin Public Schools," he said.
