Principal Vito Perrone: "They’re very confident, self-assured and extremely persistent."
EASTHAMPTON - Easthampton High School’s class of 2011 graduated Friday, receiving 103 diplomas in all.
Forty-six percent of the class will go on to two-year colleges while 28 percent are seeking four-year degrees. Three students are entering certificate programs or apprenticeships, while two will join the armed forces, said principal Vito Perrone.
Athletic director Jeff Sealander delivered the commencement address. He was the principal when the class of 2011 were freshmen.
Sealander’s address focused on the value of a positive attitude, appreciation of one’s roots and the speed with which life can change in unexpected ways.
Life will have its pitfalls and tragedies, but you must have perseverance and faith to get through them, he said.
Chairman Peter Gunn delivered a message from the school committee and Superintendent Nancy Follansbee gave congratulatory remarks.
This year’s valedictorian was Caitlin Weir. Allyson Yarra was the salutatorian.
At a separate awards night, class treasurer Samantha Duda won the Clark-Donovan Prize, which goes to “the senior who has done the most for the school during the entire four-year enrollment,” and an award for her theater work, among others.
Weir also won a bevy of awards, including the Academic Excellence Prize and an award for having the highest math average in the class.
Yarra also took home a leadership pin, several awards and other accolades.
“It’s kind of an exuberant bunch,” said Perrone. “They’re very confident, self-assured and extremely persistent.”
“Watch out, world!” he said. “Here they come!”