By Philip Sean Curran, Staff Writer
The high school journey ended Tuesday for more than 360 seniors at Princeton High School during a graduation ceremony at which they were urged to seize their futures in a rapidly changing world.
In matching blue caps and gowns, they walked into a sweltering gymnasium to the applause of their family, who turned event programs into makeshift fans.
Student speakers sought to be funny, profound, reflective and forward-looking as they addressed their classmates. Reminded of how much had changed since they entered high school, the seniors were told they had finished one journey and were about to embark on another.
“We have left our imprints on this ground and on this school, each one us, in our own personal way. And PHS has undeniably left an imprint on us,” said class president Severine Stier in her remarks.
“When we entered high school, no one could have predicted where we are today,” said fellow senior Harrison Bronfeld, one of three other speakers chosen by a vote of the students. “The future, our future, is constantly changing. New ideas and new breakthroughs are pushing the boundaries of technology, science and art every single day.”
Despite the hopeful tone of the occasion, there were references to the stalemate between the teachers and the union about a new contract. Teachers are skipping school-related events for which they are not paid; it was not clear how many of them were at graduation.
“Life doesn’t always go as planned, you found that out this year,” said Superintendent of Schools Steve Cochrane in his speech. “And you know what you did? You improvised. You formed study groups, you managed your clubs, you walked out of class, you spoke out at board meetings.”
Ms. Stier touched on the “labor impasse” between the two sides.
The ceremony, originally planned for the lawn in front of the high school, was moved inside due to the forecast calling for a thunderstorm. This was the second year in a row graduation was in the gym, with a video simulcast inside the school’s performing arts center.
Mr. Cochrane made light of the heat by reflecting on the graduation as a “sweltering and celebratory occasion.”
