NORTHBOROUGH – Families and loved ones cheered on Sunday morning as the Algonquin Regional High School (ARHS) Class of 2022 tossed their caps into the air.
The display capped this year’s ARHS graduation ceremonies, in which 322 graduates received their diplomas.
“Over the past four years, you have learned, competed, laughed, cried, celebrated, grown, persevered and endured together,” said Superintendent Greg Martineau during his welcome comments.
“Although I don’t want to speak for others, I’m sure that many would agree that we are excited for your next journey whether traveling the world, joining the military, starting a career or going to college,” he continued.
Among the speakers during the ceremony was Principal Sean Bevan, Class President Lindsey Stone and Senior Class Essayist Ryan Jennings.
Stone reflected on the class’ elementary, middle school and freshmen year experiences and memories.
“[We] then remember when we lost it all and learned the true importance of school — each other,” Stone said.
Stone called her class’ sophomore and junior years a “hibernation” for their senior year. This year then came with “so many highs,” Stone said, such as filling the stands for athletic games and being able to hold pep rallies, senior nights, plays and musicals and prom.
She shared two lessons she learned from her senior year.
One — give back to help and make others happy, though Stone urged classmates to not forget to also give that love to themselves. Two – don’t be afraid to ask for help.
Stone thanked several people, including her fellow classmates.
“This year, these last 12 years wouldn’t have been as amazing as it was without your outstanding energy, spirit and support,” Stone said. “I truly wouldn’t want to be graduating with anyone else.”
For his remarks, Martineau noted that the graduates have received advice from their friends, families, teachers and coaches on navigating their adventure.
“I thought about what advice I wanted to give to you,” he continued. “Then, I had a moment of great clarity and remembered that it wasn’t about me. It’s about you — the graduating class of 2022.”
He joked that, if the graduates were honest with him, they would most likely not care about his advice and wondered when his remarks would end.
So, he shared advice he gathered from a preschool class of 2021— take a year off, enjoy your life, practice the things you love doing, say sorry when you hurt a friend, wash your hands before you eat and just be you.
“Congratulations Class of 2022,” Martineau said. “I wish each of you safe travels and amazing adventures, and don’t forget — just be you.”
RELATED CONTENT
Hudson High School Class of 2022 celebrates graduation
Shrewsbury High School celebrates graduation
Westborough High School graduates its 150th class
