Since 2007, the school has expanded from seven advanced placement courses to 21 courses.
SPRINGFIELD – Central High School Principal Thaddeus Tokarz praised the graduates of the Class of 2011 for leading a transformation that he said brought Central from near obscurity to national renown.
Tokarz, in graduation remarks before a packed audience at Symphony Hall on Thursday, said the class had a “monumental impact” since beginning as freshmen in 2007.
“Today, because of the Class of 2011’s hard work, dedication, and belief in an institution that is geared for success, Central High School is recognized by The Washington Post as one of the best high schools in the country, expertly preparing its students for success in college and beyond,” Tokarz said. “The transformation that you have led has been inspirational to the youth and citizens of the city and influential in the rebirth of the city that we all call home.”
Since 2007, the school has expanded from seven advanced placement courses to 21 courses, and the class has grown in size and in scholarship funds, he said.
In introducing student speakers, Tokarz described Valedictorian Jerome Skelly as a student who excelled as an athlete, musician and scholar. He mastered eight Advanced Placement courses in two years, and is well on has way to being an AP National Scholar, Tokarz said.
Skelly will be attending California Institute of Technology.
Salutatorian Thanh Nguyen came to the United States five years ago from Vietnam, and had to work hard to learn a new language and culture, Tokarz said. She told students that you can accomplish anything if you work hard, he said.
She will attend Worcester Polytechnic Institute where she will major in Biomedical Engineering.
Other speakers included Class President Chauncie Rennis, Mayor Domenic J. Sarno, School Committee member Antonette Pepe and Superintendent of Schools Alan J. Ingram.