Rae Yan-Yan Harris remembered entering the halls of Bayfield High School as a "nervous, awkward freshman." She left school on Sunday as a co-valedictorian, sharing the class of 2015's top academic title with Michael Fusco.
During a touching valedictorian address, Harris, on behalf of all her classmates, thanked the proud parents in attendance "for putting up with us."
"Go far, spread your wings, and don't forget to call home," she told her classmates at the conclusion of her speech.
Bayfield High School graduated 73 seniors on May 17.
Fusco thanked the staff at school for their 13 years of education, then called for continued education in space and technology and reminded the audience that education should be for everyone, not a privileged few.
At the beginning of Sunday's ceremony, Principal Leon Hanhardt directed the class members to wave to their family members, then look left and look right at theirclassmates.
"They will be your friends forever," he noted.
Superintendent Troy Zabel observed that this is the first class that he knew as freshmen when he arrived here four years ago. He joked that this year's seniors are "that class."
"You know, the class that received $1.2 million in scholarships!" Zabel proudly noted. Other notable achievements for "that class" are two full-ride scholarships, one for academics and one for athletics. Also, the class members took a total of 62 advanced placement exams, and 23 students earned honors diplomas.
The class also has a new 3A state long jump champion, he noted, as members of the class cheered on Conner Kennedy.
Before Zabel and school board members passed out diplomas, BHS music director Derek Smith delivered the commencement address. Being a music teacher, Smith interspersed his remarks with some musical interludes, including renditions of the BHS fight song, as well as an AC/DC rock anthem, and the theme from "Sponge Bob Square Pants."
"Your cartoons are weird!" Smith told members of the class of 2015, then they laughed and applauded.
But what he likes about Sponge Bob is his students' love for the zany yellow cartoon character.
"You should have fun," Smith said. "Don't grow up too soon." When members of this class become parents, "play with your kids, because fun is important, as much as hard work."
The new graduates also should be flexible, he advised.
"You have plans for life, but life has plans for you," he recommended, adding that change is constant in life.
Smith said he is fortunate that he loves his job, and he wished the same for his students.
"You will carry a piece of Bayfield with you," he said.
The admitted Star Trek fan ended his speech with one of his favorite lines, "Live long and prosper."
The new alumni exited the gym to the refrain of the rock song "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey, then mingled in the courtyard for photos, hugs, and lots of well wishes, followed by family parties.
