Hail, grads, valedictorians

This is the time of year when schools are traditionally out for the summer. Many students - and teachers - surely have heaved sighs of relief.

This is also a time to honor all high school graduates on the successful completion of their course work. And particular recognition goes to valedictorians - the loftiest academic achievers in their graduating classes.

Sunday's Times Free Press featured pictures and academic facts about a great many smiling young people in our region who have distinguished themselves by earning valedictorian status.

Some wonder why we call graduation "commencement," since graduation means the successful "end" of formal school courses. But graduation from a course of study is not an end - it's the "commencement" of an exciting new chapter in life.

We salute all graduates. But now they are facing a challenging future - some in higher education, some in the military, many in jobs - with optimism but perhaps also a little trepidation.

With a great deal of pleasure and enthusiasm, all of us - especially family and friends of graduates - congratulate these young adults for their achievements. They, and we, look forward to their further successes!

Upcoming Events