Graduates gather for celebration at South Caldwell
Jun. 6—HUDSON — Families and loved ones gathered together on the morning of Saturday, June 4 for a graduation ceremony on the football field to celebrate South Caldwell's graduating class of 2022.
The ceremony officially began with a performance of the National Anthem by the South Caldwell class of 2022 chorus members.
Zane Mask, senior class secretary, was the first senior class officer to speak. He thanked faculty and staff for their hard work and dedication to the students, the custodians for maintaining a beautiful campus and a healthy learning environment, and the family members of the graduates for their unconditional love and support.
"I've been blessed to be the senior class secretary this year," Mask said.
Michael Mesa, senior class president, next spoke about the challenges he and his classmates faced over the last four years.
"Everyone here knows how hectic the world has been throughout our four years of high school," he said, "but I do not think anyone fully grasped the unique experience we students have had to endure. We have been hit with bizarre, overwhelming, and world-changing experiences that many classes have not faced ... There was anxiety and concern, but we agreed to adapt to the conflict and continue persevering through the issues we were all constantly reminded of."
Mesa also recognized the loss of fellow classmate, Lewis Wilson, a student, friend, and son who sadly passed away on November 28, 2021.
"I was honored to attend a luncheon in the spring in which Mr. Wilson, his father, dedicated a scholarship in Lewis's name," Mesa said. "When speaking of Lewis, Mr. Wilson said that one thing Lewis really wanted to do was graduate with his class. To the Wilson family and all those who knew Lewis, we honor his memory, and he is graduating with his class today. We saved him a seat down in front today."
"The past four years, we have constantly been victims of a multitude of struggles," Mesa continued. "And we did not really have the chance or time to grieve and heal. Life has pinned our feet to the ground and demanded we stood up. Yet in the face of these struggles, we did not just stand up, we ran. The fact that we have been able to face these issues and come back, continue, and sit here today, shows immense character.
"We hold the opportunity to connect with people, to change the course of our lives and the lives of others," Mesa finished. "That is an extremely great power, and like Spider-Man, with great power comes great responsibility. We cannot control what life will throw at us, but we can control how we react in the face of it."
Following Mesa's speech, Matt Ingram, AP Government teacher, presented the Student Hall of Fame award to Joe Bolick and Anna Katherine Howard.
"These students have exhibited outstanding contributions to South Caldwell in areas of academics, extracurricular activities, and good will," Ingram said.
Next, assistant principals Kim Clark and Ken Robbins presented the Heart of the Spartan award to Grace Munday.
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"This award is not based on academics, athletics, or any other extracurricular involvement," said Clark. "It's solely based on personal character and service to the school and the community. This student has shown through their actions that they are proud to be a South Caldwell High School student."
Assistant principals Susan Walker and Braley Speagle presented the Special Attendance award to Heather Deal and Kayla Watson. Deal has had perfect attendance for her entire K-12 career.
Leah Boff, senior class vice-president, presented the South Caldwell High School Teacher of the Year award to Spanish teacher Shea Bolick.
"I can't think of a more deserving teacher to receive this year's award, and I'm honored to give her a proper introduction," said Boff.
Bolick has been teaching for 22 years. When not at school, Bolick is active in her community, particularly the Granite Falls First United Methodist Church, where she has been the youth director for 15 years and oversees Soul Good Ministries.
"The impact she made on the senior class is immeasurable," said Boff. "Ms. Bolick was chosen by the senior class because she is a kind, encouraging, and a thoughtful teacher. One of the most significant traits Ms. Bolick possesses is her ability to make everyone feel welcome in her classroom, regardless of whether or not you're taking a Spanish class with her ... On behalf of the senior class, thank you for making your classroom a safe place to feel loved and accepted.
"I grew up at South Caldwell," said Bolick. "And I have eaten more lunches here than I can count. I went to South's daycare, I went to high school here, and I began my teaching career here ... Just like you, I am a Spartan.
"This path is yours," Bolick finished. "You carved it, and it's finished. We would all carry you out of the stadium above our heads if we could. We're all so very proud of you."
Principal Rob Bliss gave the closing address.
"Class of 2022, 13 years ago you started this journey," he said. "I'm a person who lives by the rule of three ... And so I thought, what are the three things that I would want you guys to know as we leave as a group today? Number one is that change is constant. Number two: know what's real. Number three: life's not about what you want. If you're going to be a successful person, it starts with a dream ... and then you figure out what you want."
"I wish you all the best for your futures," Bliss said in conclusion. "Good luck, and Godspeed."
Bliss then presented diplomas to the 304 graduating seniors of South Caldwell High School.
