"The Pioneer class of 2011 as a group and as individuals has faced many challenges," Principal William Wehrli said.
NORTHFIELD – The word that comes to mind when William M. Wehrli, principal of Pioneer Valley Regional School, thinks about this year’s graduates is perseverance.
“The Pioneer class of 2011 as a group and as individuals has faced many challenges,” he said. “Many of our students have faced life challenges beyond their years and each one has persevered.”
The Northfield school graduated 63 students Friday. “I am proud of the effort each student has made to become a successful graduate,” Wehrli said.
He hopes each student will build on his or her successes in high school and have a bright future.
“My experience tells me that their ability to stand tall in the face of adversity, to work hard and to stay positive will serve them well and will be an example for all of us,” he said.
Class valedictorian was Katelyn M. Gilbert; salutatorian was Kelsey A. Finnell.
Eighty-one percent of the Pioneer Valley Regional School Class of 2011 is headed to college.
According to the school’s website, the Pioneer community is committed to creating a learning environment that fosters universal respect, personal responsibility and academic excellence.
“Pioneer recognizes that to meet the challenges of the 21st century we must critically and creatively engage in real world tasks, adapt to new situations and technologies and collaboratively problem solve,” it notes.
“By designing equal opportunities and multiple approaches to growth in a heterogeneous setting, we will facilitate the success of our students in a rapidly evolving, diverse global society.”