001[Music] I think what makes Apple great is the commitment to excellence. Um, our motto is the world is our campus and we truly believe that the world is our campus and all that we do. We want to make sure that our learners are such that they are competitive in every way, shape or form. When they go to high school, when they go to college, when they get out into the workforce, we want them to be in a position where they are able to write their own ticket. So that starts in kindergarten, that starts in early childhood learning, and it continues on through high school, preparing students to see the world and take the world on as their campus. So, what makes us so special and so great as a district is even though we continue
002to grow, we still have this family feel. And that's what I love about it here. It really still has that small town feel even though we keep growing and growing and growing. And so, we really pride ourselves on knowing all of our families, knowing our students, having relationships outside of the schools. So, it's not um unheard of that lots of teachers or therapists are visiting the ball fields or the soccer fields to see their students from their school. You'll see them at the public libraries. You'll see them at local businesses. Um they are invested in being a part of our community. I actually have the amazing story that I came here student taught here and never left. Moved our family here, had our kids come through Abuquin. Um, and so I think that that feeling
003of a family is within our staff and I think that is also shown by Dr. Burr's commitment to bringing us all together. It's important that as a community we invest in our schools simply said because it's our children, right? And so how else do we demonstrate value and commitment and confidence in our children other than by investing in their education? And it I think you know as a community when we do that we all win. You know regardless if you have a child in the district or not they still are part of the community. And I think the operative word in that is community. So it's like how do we unify and unite to ensure that our children are getting the best the very best from an education perspective. And I think through aquinamic there
004is a clear demonstration of that. The overall commitment to our children is established through education. So, one of the things that we're most proud of is the accomplishments of the district. We've been recognized nationally for many different things and the things that we support and we want to continue to do that. But we realize that what makes Apple great is our staff. Those honors and things and the greatness that's delivered every day in the classroom or in our in our school buildings is because of our staff. We are unique because we've invested in the staff that are in our schools. We are committed to continuing to grow and provide the highest level of academics that we can. So, we are growing at a rapid pace and keeping up with that. We're innovative. We are inclusive.
005So, we are making sure that we keep that high standard even when we're growing quickly. No matter how big we get, it still feels like a family. Whether you're a brand new teacher or a veteran educator, you know that you are supported by our [Music] community. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey, [Music] hey. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Hey, Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Glor. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Applause] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] [Applause] Heat. Heat. [Music] Thank you. Please remain standing for the pres
006presentation of colors and the singing of our national anthem by the Odessa High School Choir. [Music] Oh, say can you See by the dawn early light what so proud we at the twilight last gleaming whose stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight for the hearts we watched were so gallently streaming and the rockets red glare. The bombs bursting in air gave through the night that our flag was still there. Who say does that star spangle man yet for the land of the [Applause] free and the home of the brave? [Applause] Thank you. You may now be seated. [Music] [Applause] Hart to thee forever. We're true. From Bridge to the Quinn, we pledge ourselves to [Music] you. Honor, excellence, loyalty, and passion permeate our spirit. So true. Through our journey at high f with you.
007[Applause] [Music] You see on the path ahead. When the road you walk is [Music] dark, may you hear, even in your heart of sorrow, the gentle singing of the Lord. When times are hard, may hardness never turn. your heart. [Music] May you remember when the [Music] shadow you do not want. [Music] May you see God's light on the path ahead. When the road you walk is dark, may you see in your hour of sorrow the gentle singing of the Lord. When times are hard, may hardness never turn your heart to stone. May you remember when the shadows fall. You do not walk [Music] [Applause] alone. Good evening everyone, friends, family, teachers, and of course the class of 2025. It's a pleasure to welcome you all here today. My name is Morgan Swigot and I am
008a graduating senior at Odessa High School. Being a Duck has always meant more than just wearing our school colors or showing up to class. It's about living by our core values every single day. Being determined, united, creative, kind, and most importantly, a scholar. We've all shown those values in different ways. Whether it was staying up late to study for that one impossible test, cheering each other on at games and performances, or just being there for a friend who needed a little support, we've lived those values without even realizing it sometimes. And now, as we move on from high school and step into the next chapter of our lives, those same values come with us. They'll guide us in college, at work, and in life. Being passionate about what we do, staying strong and resilient when
009life throws us curveballs, and being open to all the possibilities and opportunities ahead. That's what being a duck is really about. One of my favorite memories from high school, aside from finding out one of my very first high school friends had the same name as me on day one, was joining the best winter cheerleading team in Delaware. [Applause] That team became more than just something I did after school. Being captain from 10th through 12th grade gave me the chance to grow as a leader, to push myself, and most importantly, to connect with so many amazing people. I got to build bonds, celebrate victories, and learn what it really means to be part of a team. That experience taught me how powerful it is when we lift each other up and work together. So, as we
010all take our next steps, I just want to leave you with this. Remember who you are. You all are ducks. Be determined in the vision you want to create for your life. Stand united and firm in your beliefs and let nothing shake your resilience. Embrace your creativity for it is the spark that will light up your path and inspire others. And above all, be kind. In a world that sometimes feels divided, your kindness can bridge the gap and bring people together. Being a scholar has meant more than just academic achievement. It's been a journey of growth, resilience, and discovering the power of learning to shape not just our future, but who we are. Move forward with courage, with passion, and with kindness. Knowing that within you lies the power to create lasting change. carry every
011lesson and every blessing with you as you embark on your next chapter. So go for it with courage, with passion, and with heart. We've already come so far, and I know, we know, we all know that the best is still ahead. Thank you, and congratulations to the class of 2025. [Applause] Good. Good evening, my fellow graduates, parents, staff, friends, and honored guests. My name is Henry Yasager. On this special day, I'm proud to welcome and introduce you to our distinguished platform guests, our school district superintendent, Dr. Matthew Burroughs. [Applause] who is accompanied by our two assistant superintendents, Mr. Thomas Pullman and Dr. Gina Robinson. Now for our board of education, I introduce the board president, Mr. Richard [Applause] Forston, vice president, Mrs. is Toshiba Grant and board members Mr. Norm Abrams, Mrs. Michelle Dit, and
012Mrs. Michelle Wool. Next for our high school administration, we have our principal, Dr. Dr. D'Angelo Elely and our three assistant principles, Mrs. Kirsten Croner, Mr. Brandt Perry, and Mrs. Terron Per. Last, but most definitely not least, our class adviserss who made our last school year went for the books. Mr. Jimmy Latovitz. and Miss Emily Miller. They have all gathered here to help celebrate and congratulate us on this wonderful achievement. Thank [Applause] you. Good afternoon, friends, family, educators, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2025. Before I get started, I want to ask a quick favor. If you are a parent or a caregiver of a graduate, an educator, a support staff member, or a coach, could you please stand if you're able to graduates, please take a moment to take a look around. You may
013be seated. So these are the people who showed up for you, who stayed late, gave you second chances, challenged you, believed in you, and sometimes believed in you when you did not believe in yourself. You didn't walk this journey alone. This afternoon is your moment, but it's also a celebration of their love, their dedication, and their service. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said, "Everybody can be great because anybody can serve." You need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love, and you can be that servant. To every educator and supporter in the gym this afternoon, you have served with both grace and love, and I thank you. Now, class of 2025, let me channel the energy of the greatest boxer of all time, Muhammad Ali, who once said before one of the
014biggest heavyweight championship matches against George Foreman in what was called the Rumble in the Jungle in 1974, Muhammad Ali said, "I'm experienced now, a professional. My jaws been broke. I've been knocked down a couple of times. I'm bad. I've been chopping trees for this fight. I done wrestle with an alligator. I done tussled with a whale. I done handcuffed lightning, thrown thunder in jail. That's bad. Only last week, I injured a stone. I hospitalized a break. I'm so mean, I make medicine sick. I'm going to show you how great I am. That's the kind of spirit I see in each and every one of you. Life has thrown its punches, tests, tears, loss, doubt, and you stayed on your feet. You're still here. You kept going and now you're just not walking across the stage.
015You're going to be flying across that stage into life. You started your chapter here as students of Adessa High School. And this evening, you're going to leave as a Desessa High School ducks, ready to soar. And as you take flight, I want to remind you of the five feathers that will lift you on that journey. They're your Duck's core values, and you guys know them well. First, the feather of determination. Never give up. As Denzel Washington once said, "Without commitment, you'll never start, and without determination, you'll never finish." There may be always someone more talented, faster, smarter, but no one no one should outwork you. Effort is the great equalizer. Feather of unity. Your success will not be measured just what you accomplish alone, but how you build up those around you. Embrace this truth.
016I am me because of we. A rising tide lifts all ships. Our ship does not need anchors. So please be the tide. Feather of creativity. You will fail. Let me repeat that. You will fail. That's guaranteed. But failure is where growth lives. Ducks are never afraid to fail because we are problem solvers. We are doers and we are innovators. We turn setbacks into setups for success. Feather of kindness. Kindness is your superpower. Give people mercy, grace, and justice. Treat people better than they deserve to be treated. It costs nothing, but it means everything. Feather of scholarship. Being a scholar isn't about having all the right answers. It's about curiosity, humility, hunger to grow, and the pursuit of excellence. Not perfection, but progress. Excellence doesn't come from doing extraordinary things, but from doing ordinary things extraordinarily
017well. Ask yourself each and every day, what did I do yesterday to make myself better for tomorrow? What am I going to do today to make myself better for the future? Class of 2025, you're just not graduating. You're becoming the best version of yourselves, shaped by your values, your experiences, and the people who helped you along the way. The world does not need you to be perfect. I want to repeat that. The world does not need you to be perfect. It just needs you to be present, to be passionate, and to show up with a purpose. So go out there, fly, commit yourself to being 1% better each and every day. And as the great Muhammad Ali once said, show us how great you are. Thank you, class of 2025. Next coming to the stage
018is our pre board president, Mr. Forson. [Applause] Members of the class of 2025, on behalf of myself and my fellow schoolboard members, let me say congratulations and well done to the families, the parents, the brothers, the sisters, the grandparents, the aunts, the uncles, the cousins, the friends, and everyone else here with a graduate on the floor. Let me say to you, congratulations and well done. And to the faculty, our staff, our administrators, and all of our school district family, let me say congratulations and well done. Now, it is customary at commencement proceedings for someone to take the stage and offer a few words of advice and encouragement. To tell you to work hard and do good work, to always cherish your family and friends, to learn something new every day, and most importantly, to always
019take the high road. And you should do all of these things. But today I want to do something a little different. Uh today I want to respond to a sentiment that I hear far too often and one that troubles me and should trouble all of you. I want to respond to the naysayers in the media in the world at large who would try to persuade us that we live in dark times, difficult times, dangerous times. The world, these naysayers tell us, is going to hell in a hand basket. Our government is failing. Our politics are faltering. Our world is only getting worse. But I am here to tell you today that none of this is true. In fact, I am here today to tell you that we live in the greatest era of human history
020ever. Bar none. It's not even close. Despite what the naysayers would tell you, the world is not going to hell in a hand basket. Rather, the world continues to get better every day, and you should be excited by that, and you should all vow to do your part going forward to make it even better. But because you're young and skeptical, as you should be, let me see if I can't demonstrate to you why I am so confident that we do live in the greatest age of human history and why things will only continue to get better. We live in the year 2025. But think about those who lived in the year 1900, the turn of the last century, just 125 years ago. At that time, the airplane had yet to be invented. Cars were expensive
021and scarce. There was no radio, no TV, no internet. There was no Food and Drug Administration monitoring the safety of our food supply. Penicellin and antibiotics hadn't been discovered. Surgery was an iffy thing. Anesthesia was not very good and doctors still understood very little about disease and food choices were quite limited. In fact, all of us here today have a better, healthier, more varied diet than even the richest families at the turn of the last century. Today in the Middletown Odessa Townsend area, we have more and better food options than the richest men and women of 1900. You can have steak, pork, chicken, fish. You have access to fresh fruits and vegetables year round. You have Italian, Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Indian, Mexican, Jamaican, and a host of other food options that would make
022you the envy of the Rockefellers, the Morgans, the Vanderbilts, the Carnegies, the Melons, and all of the other richest families at the turn of the last century. Oh, and by the way, if you didn't feel like cooking and you didn't want to go out, you could order your food choice online and have Door Dash deliver it to you. Now, some of you may be traveling this summer. Today, you can fly across the United States or to Europe or Asia or Africa or South America in a matter of hours. trips that would have taken the wealthiest Americans weeks or months in 1900 and would have cost far far more than they do today. The 40hour work week didn't exist in 1900. In the 1800s, it was customary to work 10 to 12 hours a day, 6
023days a week. organ transplants, hip and knee replacements, minimally invasive surgery, the eradication of smallpox, and the ability to treat many other diseases. Medical advances have come incredibly far. We truly do live in the greatest age of human history. Here are some statistics for you. In 1900, the poverty rate in the United States was 56%. Today, it is 11.1%. Now, 11.1% still too high, and we need to do better. But the fact is that the rate today is the lowest it has ever been and is far better than it was 125 years ago when when over half this country lived in poverty. In 1800, your life expectancy would have been 38.8 years. By 1900, that had increased to 47 years. Today, in 2025, life expectancy is 79.3 years. Now, how many of you have the
024following things in your home? A clothes washer, a clothes dryer, a dishwasher, a refrigerator, electric or gas stove, microwave, radio, TV, home computer, vacuum cleaner, bathtub, shower, sinks with running water, electricity, working toilets, and a safe and safe drinking water. Many of those items on that list did not exist in 1900, and those that did were something that only the very rich might be able to afford. And yet today we take them all for granted. And what about our politics which we are told are so poisonous? I will suggest to you that it has always ever been such nastiness in politics may be disappointing but it's hardly new. Now one thing I haven't mentioned till now is this. The iPhone was only invented in 2007. Today, smartphones are everywhere, and these small devices do far
025more than the largest mainframe computers in the 1950s and60s. Today, with a smartphone, you can take pictures, get directions, pay for parking, order food, check the weather, and access the almost unlimited information on the internet. Oh, and there's this thing called Tik Tok and another thing called YouTube. And there's all sorts of other social media. And if you need it, you can even talk to someone by dialing their number on your phone. It's an incredible tool, and it wasn't even invented until 2007, right around the time that many of you were born. And nobody would have ever predicted that you could carry around such a powerful, flexible tool 40 or 50 years ago. And now I want you to think about what's going to be invented in the next five years, the next 25 years,
026and the next 50 years, and how these things and how these things are going to make our world even better. What future advances are there going to be in medicine? When will we send men and women to Mars? What further technological breakthroughs are going to happen that we can't even imagine today? We do live in the greatest era in human history, the highest standards of living, the longest life expectancy, the highest rates of education, a tremendous abundance of technology and modern convenience that we all take for granted but were either expensive luxuries or didn't even exist. 50, 100, or 200 years ago. Class of 2025, congratulations. The world into which you graduate is the greatest in human history. You're going to be a part of it, and it's only going to get better. Thank you.
027Good evening. My name is Jimmy Latvitz and it is my great privilege to introduce someone who has left a lasting mark on our school and on those lucky enough to work with him. Before I begin, I just want to share how special it is for me personally to stand here tonight. Not only as a teacher, but as one of the class adviserss who has had the honor of watching this incredible group grow over the past four years. It makes this moment all the more meaningful. As a teacher, you sometimes meet students whose passion for learning, natural curiosity, and tremendous academic ability create a classroom environment that feels truly special. Our next speaker is one of those students. From the very first day I met him in AP Calculus BC, it was clear that he didn't
028just come to class to do well. He came to truly understand, to ask thoughtful questions, to challenge ideas, and to even bring others along with him. He has a way of sharing his thinking that invites his classmates into the conversation and elevates the overall discussion, which encourages people to grow alongside him. And while his academic record is impressive on paper, what's even more remarkable is how he has approached every opportunity with persistence and determination. His efforts have earned him recognition as a National Merit Scholarship finalist, a United States Presidential Scholars Program nominee, and a Secretary of Education scholar. He has proudly represented Odessa High School in state level competitions, bringing home five state medals from Delaware Science Olympiad in competing at the highest level in math league. Just showing up has never been an option
029for him. But beyond the awards and accolades, what I will remember most are the countless small moments. the morning conversations we shared, his enthusiasm when discussing new ideas, the leadership he brought to class each day, even if he needed Tate to accompany him at the Smartboard, and the example he set for others through his work ethic and character. It has truly been an honor to play even a small role in his journey here at Odessa. He has raised the standard for academic excellence while reminding us all of the joy that can be found in learning and growing together. This fall he will take the next step in his journey continuing his studies in biochemistry at the University of California Berkeley. Please join me in celebrating the class of 2025 saludiatoran Mr. Prrenav Ralph. Thank you
030Mr. Latavitz. Good evening everyone. Parents, teachers, siblings, and friends. I'm beyond honored to stand before you all in saludiatoran. As I look out at all of you, faces I've grown up with, studied, and struggled in calculus with, and laughed with, I can't help but realize how quickly time has passed. Now, I know a lot of you told me to keep this short. Many of you personally also came up to me and asked me to make it funny. But trust me, I won't drag this out with an exaggerated, profound analogy that none of us, including myself, really understand. But I do want to share something that's been on my heart with you all. There's a saying I came across a while ago during a particularly difficult time in my life that reminds me of the idea
031of oh of keeping memories quite often. Your heart is but a museum of everyone you've ever loved. And these past few years I've come to see how true it is. Our hearts are filled with exhibits of all the people and experiences that have shaped us. Some big, some small, but all significant. Think about those late night car adventures filled with the love of friendship. Or the afternoon studying sessions before tests filled with a love of camaraderie. Each of those pieces through actions, words, and belief have come together to form the people we are today. And now I believe that museum is being richly curated right here this evening. Regardless of whether they're good or bad, scary or hilarious, every piece of art is priceless. The tender short moments of quiet understanding with friends or the
032sharp wisdom of those who have seen so much more than ourselves. This class together has built a significant wing in the museum of our hearts with love. Oh, it's tempting though in moments like this to look ahead towards the excitement of college, jobs, and as we all love, independence. Or to look back in nostalgia at the late night studying, hard-earned wins, and the relationships that have changed our lives. But today, I want to invite all of us to pause. We live in a moment that's always rushing us forward. So, take a breath and simply appreciate the love. We made it to this moment through all the challenges we faced over our lives with the relationships we've built these past four years. In the hundreds of millennia of human existence, this moment is joyous because this
033right now is a once- ina-lifetime moment. The moment we've all been thinking about for the past four years, the lights, the warmth of a familiar name being called, the sound of your footsteps going across the stage, the eyes of the people you love watching you from the crowd. It's fleeting and that's what makes it so sacred. It's easy to let life rush pass in a blur of anticipation. But the truth is life is this collection of present moments. In these seconds, minutes, and hours, we're creating memories through love that will carry for the rest of our lives. So during the graduation ceremony itself, as names are called and diplomas are awarded, just remember to be in the moment and treasure it. Take it all in. This specific collection of people in this specific place at
034this specific time with all of these relationships that we have built will never be together quite like this again. So don't miss it. And so tonight, when you feel overwhelmed or emotional as you appreciate the moment, maybe that's why your museum is being filled. And it's beautiful. Thank you, class of 2025, teachers, families, and staff for being here this evening. And thank you to my family for teaching me the importance of living in the moment. My fellow graduates, thank you for the memories. Now, let's enjoy these coming moments one last time together. As teachers, students enter our lives in different ways. Some enter boldly, announcing their presence in our class. Others sit down and try to go unnoticed. Still others have a quiet, positive presence, confident enough in themselves and their abilities to be willing
035to take risks by volunteering, asking and answering questions, and explaining their understanding to others. I've been blessed with all of these students over the years. Today I have the honor of presenting a student who embodies our core values. A student that I've been fortunate to have in class for most of his high school career. He was determined to keep a challenging schedule with numerous advanced courses while also becoming involved in our school community including becoming a founding member of our boys volleyball team. He has the ability to unify the mindset of a class with a well-timed statements that create aha moments as often as they cause laughter. His creativity helps him think outside the box to solve challenges, like those he dealt with to get his senior capstone experiment working and those he invited on
036himself by helping others with their experiments. His creative mindset helped him to pivot and refine his techniques and give suggestions to enhance other experiments. His kindness is one of his most notable traits. Whether he's greeting you with a friendly smile, waiting patiently for you to deal with yet another class interruption before addressing his questions, providing an ear to listen and offering assistance to another student, or just being present with someone in a moment of struggle or sorrow as a solid source of empathy and compassion. His ability as a scholar is what brought him to where he is in our program today. He has had academic success and an exceptionally challenging schedule. Seamlessly integrating into classes taken by upper classmen. Even as a freshman, his focus, intellectual abilities, and willingness to help others have made him
037an asset in my classroom and in many others. I've seen him go from a quiet but curious freshman to the confident senior you will hear from today. Please help me welcome your class of 2025 validictorian, Mr. Cole [Applause] Massie. Thank you so much, Mrs. Dalton. Good evening to the faculty, friends, families, and to my fellow graduates who are gathered with us today. In honor of slowing down, like my friend Pernov was saying, I'd like to take a moment and tell you all what today really means to me. On my 18th birthday, my father gave me a watch. It wasn't a smart watch with new a new model with sleek features. It was old, heavy, and gold. The kind of watch people don't really wear anymore. My great-grandfather Tim Hannon's name was engraved on the inside
038of the case. three generations back. I had never heard his voice, never seen a photograph, and suddenly I was carrying his name on my wrist. My father handed it to me and said, "Every time you look at this watch, I want you to think, it's my time." I've been thinking about this sentence ever since. Not because it was poetic or uniquely profound, but because it unsettled me. It didn't feel like a moment of ownership. It felt like a moment of responsibility. The watch wasn't just marching marking time. it was carrying it and now I was too. Graduating doesn't feel like a finish line to me. Sometimes it feels like being handed something ancient and breakable and being told gently but firmly, "Take it from here." I don't come from a long line of validictorians. No
039one handed me a blueprint for how to do this. But what I did inherit was a quiet kind of a discipline. I come from people who didn't always have choices, but chose to care, to endure, to put one foot in front of the other anyway. That kind of persistence doesn't show up in transcripts or awards, but it's the reason I'm standing here. Academic success may look like individual achievement from the outside, but I know it's never solitary. My father's idea of opportunity was giving me this watch and letting me decide what kind of life I've built around it. And mine, it's standing here today and realizing I didn't get here alone. There's a strange distance at the end of high school. We're told it's our moment to shine, our step into independence, our time. But
040we're also aware, some more than others, of the scaffolding that held us up, the hands that held us steady. And yet, we also made choices. We showed up when it was easier not to. If there's one thing I've learned throughout these years, it's that success doesn't always feel like triumph. Sometimes it feels like carrying something forward without dropping it. That's what this watch means to me. It's not a single a signal that the world is mine. It's a reminder that I'm a part of something larger and longer than myself and that I'm accountable to it. Time didn't start when I was born and it won't stop when I'm gone. But for this small stretch, this narrow window, I'm holding it. And what I do with it matters. I think all of us are holding something
041invisible like that. We carry things forward whether we realize it or not. So, what does it really mean to have our time? It doesn't mean seizing the spotlight or running towards the next goal. I think it means slowing down just enough to notice what matters. To recognize the systems that we're entering, the universities, the workplaces, the cities are not blank slates. They're layered. Like that watch, they've been built, worn, passed down, and they require not just ambition, but awareness. For me, I carry a reminder in my on my wrist that time is both a gift and a burden. That progress is a chain we're a part of, not the final link. that success isn't something you keep, it's something you give away. In a few minutes, we'll leave this ceremony with diplomas in hand, photos
042on our phones, and perhaps a vague sense that the world is waiting for us. But maybe the more important question is, what are we waiting for? Not waiting in hesitation, but in attention. What will we choose to notice, to question, to change? Who will we remember when we build something new? Tonight isn't just a moment of achievement. It's a handoff, a turning of time, a quiet transfer of hope from one generation to the next. To my classmates, whatever watch you've been given, whether literal or symbolic, I hope you carry it with intention. Not because it makes you special, but because it reminds you what you do next has weight. Thank you to the teachers who challenged us, to the families who stood by us, and to the friends who got us to the moments we
043didn't want to talk about. And I'd like to thank my family personally for the reminder that time isn't something we own. It's something we honor. Congratulations, class of 2025. It's our time. In May, our staff and community honored many of our seniors for their achievements over the last four years at our second annual senior awards ceremony. We are proud to share that the class of 2025 has amassed awards and scholarships to the total of 8,127,240. Seniors who have been received an award or scholarship, please stand at this time to be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. Good evening everyone. My name is Kina Diaz and I'm a student from the Aggra Science Pathways. As we gather here to celebrate our achievements, I want to take a moment to recognize what we've built here together.
044Within these school walls and far beyond them, we have shaped a legacy. Look around. This is our moment. Today, I want to talk to you about two simple words. What if? As kids, what if sparked our imagination? What if I could fly? What if dinosaurs come back? Back then, these questions were filled with wonder. But as we got older, these same questions started to sound more like fear than curiosity. What if I don't get into the right college? What if I fail? back then these quest let's be honest we the class of 2025 know a thing or two about uncertainty we started high school with mask zoom calls and a world that felt like it was shifting every day we live through whatifs most students never had to imagine what if things no never go
045back to normal what if this is just a new reality and I get it I've been there too there were moments when I felt felt like I was carrying too much between school, the FFA, and family. I felt pressure. I started asking myself, "What if I'm not good enough? What if I'm falling behind?" It's easy to feel like the challenges are greater than us. But here's what I learned and hope you take away with yourself today. We get to redefine our whatifs. We get to turn fear into possibility. What if I can make a difference? What if I can achieve my dreams? Think about all we've overcome to get where we are today. We adapted. We persevered. We stood by each other. And we found strength in adversity. That's who we are. We're resilient. We're
046innovative. We're compassionate. And we're ready. And now I have a challenge for you. Don't let this be the end of your growth. Don't let this be the last time you ask yourself, "What if?" Instead, lean into it. Ask the big questions. What if I stand up for what's right, even when no one else will? What if I lead? What if I inspire? What if I build something no one ever thought possible? Because here's the truth. We don't just represent the future. We are the future. So, as we step out of these school hallways and into the next chapter, don't be afraid to wonder. But more importantly, don't be afraid to act. Class of 2020 25, let's turn our whatifs into what's next. Let's make bold choices. Let's create real change. And let's make our mark.
047Congratulations, class of 2025. The future is ours. Let's claim it. Thank you. Good evening everybody. My name is Tate Merson and I'm honored to share this great moment with all of you. We stand here today on the precipice of the future. It is no longer what do you want to be when you grow up. It has become what are you doing next year? The future begins here and it begins today. Not that long ago, we were cramming into hallways with middle schoolers and the upper classmen who have already taken this next step. Today, we take that next step. Our stories have just begun. Whether that be in the workforce, the military, university, or anything else. Our paths might be diverging, but today we celebrate the prologue that we have already lived out. What we have
048done today is a feat that cannot be ignored. We battled through the years as we navigated the chaos of high school, eventually culminating in this very moment. But we would not have been able to do it alone. There's a saying that nobody's accomplishments are 100% their own. So I rise here today to express our gratitude. To our teachers, thank you for working tirelessly grading papers, planning, exhausting yourself, and regrading papers to raise great minds for the future. I know these mandatory retakes have been annoying, but they're partially the reason that we have all made it here today. You do not know us. You do not owe us your knowledge, but you so graciously shared it regardless. You explained topics repeatedly, even if we were being disrespectful in the moment. You demanded greatness from us. You
049set the bar high, and you compelled us to live up to it. To our coaches, thank you for putting in exhaustive hours, instilling discipline into our student athletes, providing structure and support throughout their days, and guiding students to success. Your work paid off. We have many students advancing with sports scholarships, and yet again, that's thanks to your help. You made school more significant than just bags and homework. You taught us how it feels to win and how to persevere through a defeat. We learned how to work with a team and had a spectacular time while we were doing it. To our parents and anyone else who stepped up for a student, thank you for supporting us in more ways than it's possible to count. You dragged us out of bed and fed us each morning.
050You kicked us out the door and made sure we got to this building on time. Whether it was through the bus, any other vehicle, you got us here. You paid for our tickets to the dances, our AP exams, our field trips, and you supported us throughout it all. You listened when there was drama, and you attended our events, but you remembered to give us enough space to help us grow into adults. These are only a handful of the countless ways that you have helped us throughout the years. To our discipline team, thank you for keeping the school safe. Even though these hall sweep announcements got on everyone's nerves, it was to build us into better humans. We may not realize that at the moment, but as we age, we'll be grateful for everything that you've
051guided us through. But most importantly of all, to our classmates, my friends, thank you. Thank you for being by my side throughout every class, laughing at my ridiculous jokes. Thank you for sitting in anticipation with me, wondering whether or not we got an A on that test. All of our journeys have led us here today with at least 10 different people supporting us in at least 10 different ways. Our unique our unique souls will leave this room as adults, ready to take on the world. Yet, we will remember the events that we live through here together. All that's left for us as graduates is to share our gratitude with the people who guided us here and to pay it forward. To everybody in this room, thank you for being you. [Applause] Will the class of
0522025 please stand? With the power vested in me by the Apple Cornmick School District Board of Education through the Delaware State Board of Education, I present to you for graduation these members present of Adessa High School's class of 2025. [Applause] And now the moment you've all been waiting for. Mrs. Shelley Wong and Mr. Jimmy Latavis will read each graduate's name as the graduates come to the stage to accept their diplomas. And now the top duck scholars from the science pathway. Nicole Massie from the advanced placement pathway. Pranav Vishwanth Ralph from the K12 teacher academy pathway and the advanced placement pathway. Emma Noel [Applause] Cypes from the engineering pathway. Jeremy Gishu [Applause] Drauna from the Allied Health Pathway. Stephanie Jessica Culpo from the science pathway. Eno Jeffrey Timmons from the advanced placement pathway. Caroline Bridget Miller
053from the allied health pathway. Danielle Marie Branch from the science pathway. Min Jieven Sha Vu from the Allied Health Pathway. Krishna Mirage Patel from the entrepreneurship business and leadership pathway. Amelia Alexandra [Applause] Caris from the Allied Health Pathway. Therana Satish from the Allied Health Pathway. Imani Po Dexter from the visual arts pathway. Carolyn Jean [Applause] Harvey from the engineering pathway. Mera Vitro from the Allied Health Pathway. Mia Lynn Atkins from the Science Pathway. Alyssa A. Bush from the Allied Health Pathway. Kaylee Maria Camputero from the engineering pathway. Brian Joseph Whan from the engineering pathway. Jason Earl Timson from the animal science and management pathway. Juliana Marie Burns from the Allied Health Pathway. Sage Kennedy Jackson from the Forensics Pathway. Marissa Lynn Wolf from the Allied Health Pathway. Isabella Lentelli from the Criminal Justice and Legal
054Issues Pathway. Noel Elizabeth Pennington from the World Language and International Studies Pathway. Payton Elizabeth Rockel from the Engineering Pathway. Addison Teresa Hurst. the school of agriculture and natural resources from the animal science and management pathway. Hathim Samage Alan [Applause] Barrett Hannah Elizabeth Coker Cameron Noel Diaio Kina Marie Diaz Ma E. Galbreth [Applause] Elizabeth Marie Hanlin Aaron Lamont Hinsson Dior Lache [Applause] Jackson Antonio Waniko Kimmani Tiana Lynn Lewis, Gracie Lynn Littleton, Callie Sierra Markham, Aisha Na Watera, Emily Ray Pada, Alexandra Marie Stanberry Taylor, Haley Wade, [Applause] Sir Alexa Marie Tenorio, [Applause] Jackson Reese Wills from the Natural Resource Management Pathway. McKenna Robin Bell Grayson Anmarie Clark Michael James Shupe from the plant science pathway. Cameron Nicole Chambers, Mirabel Lynn [Applause] Taylor from the School of Business and Economics, the Junior Achievement Pathway. Victoria A. Aapong, Lyanna
055Aaliyah Agazeri, Robert James Burke, Ryan Clark, Sawyer Denham, Cameron James Edwards, Harnet Core, Chelsea Noel Kelly, Lawrence Jaylen Matthews, Ally Michelle Meadows, [Applause] Ivan Melisa, Cody Benjamin Morin, Hannah Grace Ogrady, Taylor Simone Pit, Josiah William Price, Shahed Harold Reeves Jackson, Keon Rashad Richardson Wilson, Michael Ivan Robinson, Kayla Gabrielle Christristen Scott, Morgan Nicole Swigot, Zier N. Titus, Casai Armad Truit, Brett Anthony Vitzoric, Morgan [Applause] Wallace, the School of Culinary Arts and Hospitality from the Culinary Pathway. Jaden Christopher [Applause] Banks, Enzo Michael Bonet, Khloe Milan, Brown Lewis, Annayiah Janae Cassidy, Janelle Harmony Collins, Imani Sai Davis, David C. Del Grande, Olivia Michelle Dael, Kendra Destiny Jackson Evan Michael Knap Michael E. Kusman Jackson C. Madager Tiana Christina McCulla Amari Lama Medina Chase R Money Keelin Riley Okconor Ashton Keith Perry [Applause] Giovani Greyel [Applause] Rivera, Yama Naomi
056Suba, Tyon Zier Wilbourne from the School of Education and Leadership Development from the Early Childhood Teacher Academy Pathway. McKenzie Katherine Bole Victoria Emmy Frasier Aaliyah Savannah [Applause] Owner from the K12 teacher academy pathway. Logan Bosco, Timothy William Hannah, Amelia Jane Rockwell, Andrew Tyler Williams, the School of Health Sciences from the Allied Health Pathway, Lamese Alfr, Daniela Uma Balkaran, [Applause] Michael Steven Beondalo, Amara Marie [Applause] Blake, Madison Brookke Blanchfield, Aubrey Rose, Mary [Applause] Borman, SAM, Mary Dela [Applause] Braggs, Leah Ia Shannon Clemens, Emma Reese Connor, Claire Elizabeth [Applause] Davis, Michaela Jasmine Davis, Emily Christine Del Monaco, Destiny Ameilani Ferrer Brown, Amamira Net Gardner Motin Ania Javet Gardner Moten Caitlyn Lee Helms Haley Eva [Applause] Hibbert Kayn Deanna Johnson LJ J. B. Jones, Sia Caria Nexus [Applause] Jones, Elelliana Sarah Kempsky, John Victor [Applause] Keane, Caroline Laura
057Lawson, Taylor Marie Lindell, [Applause] Nia Ammani Mloud Ethan Kenete Jaguna Da D Palmer Ashley Christristen Pyat Kylie McKenzie Prrowy Gabriella Sophia Pudamat Sophia Ray Rididgeway, Bris Iris, Rios, Hannah Marie Ritterizer, Allison Bailey [Applause] Simpson, Savannah Marie Stevenson, [Applause] Malikica Imaria Thelma Sumaka, Annayia Jose [Applause] Tolson, Riley Snow [Applause] Turner, Chase D. Underwood, [Applause] Paris, Allure, Warfield, Addison, Victoria Wam, Kalia Briana Witherspoon, Annayiah Paige Woodards from the School of Language, Literature, and Human Development from the Humanities ities pathway. Isabella Marie Chavaria, Ane Mariah Ever Lauren Elizabeth Fiser, Ashley Merida, Gabriel O. Obasmi Samantha Jean Smith from the World Language and International Studies Pathway. Zachary R. Bailey Rean an heights the School of Military and Civic Leadership from the Criminal Justice and Legal Issues Pathway. Amy Victoria Albanesey's Alexander Keith Barnett Jaylen Bernacau Kayla Morgan Campbell [Applause]
058Harris Michael Ray Carden Jr. Ella Grace Carol Holly Anne Clark, Deanna Aubrey Coleman, [Applause] Cameron Sha Crowe, [Applause] Abigail Akua, Adu Denoa, [Applause] Connor Jacob [Applause] Deck, Tiwillo, Angel, Dennis, Demetria Patrice Duramis [Applause] Khalif [Applause] Parvey Madison Taylor Holtzman Kiara Gabriella [Applause] Jackson Marley Sky Jackson Noah Declan Johnson, Erica Brin Lynch, Cheyenne Ieta [Applause] Matelis, Renee Lynn Monan, Audrey Mariana Reyes, Shakira Nara Robertson, [Applause] Reca Sanchez, TMPOS, [Music] Chase [Music] Sincle, Amaya Street, Canela, Brena, [Applause] Theodore, Zoe Lynn Thomas, Alana Lynette [Applause] Wilson from the Jobs for Delaware graduates pathway. Steven [Applause] Asavdo Daniel C. Carden Keith Justin [Music] Generet Asante Asha Morris Noah Alexander Normand Brendan Thomas Matthew A. Wit from the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps Pathway. Cassidy Lynn Green [Applause] Grace Simpers [Applause] from the school of performing and design arts academic
059studies. Deshawn Renee Banks from the digital communication technology pathway. Jerabou Joseph Bunga, Jada Laorray Branch, Emily Renee Campbell, Cecilia Anne Deluco, Dylan James Ash, Adrien Lamar Frasier, Andre Lavar Frasier, [Applause] Kevin Adam Ureg Jaden Shaer Amir Lindsay Seth Alejandro Marcus Joshua James McCcluskey Jr. Owen Meucani B Moyes Jr. [Music] Emma Taylor Smith, Gavin David Whan from the music pathway, Ana Venet Allen Chin, Nathan Robert Elman, Riley Adam Hodgej, Isaiah Jovin Moulder from the theater arts pathway. India Maria Austin Jack Town Collins Johanna Marie D. Leonardo Savannah Elsie Dre Spiler Shelby Ray Esler Tasia Yasmin Jevier Justia Lada Quesada, Len Michaela, Sharon, Imani Moore, Savannah Rose Moore, Evelyn Renee Perry, Ava Grace Taylor, Kevin Michael Young, Hannah Grace Zitler, from the visual arts pathway. Alexander Jeremiah Aanarius, Madison Lauren Beckley, Brandy Danielle Brandon, Gavin Bahoneyi, Ashlin
060M. Campbell, Victoria Cortez, Alonszo, Mia Lashelle Desasher, Jordan Alexis Gonzalez, Kyla Lache Hart, Emily Anne Johnson, Brooke Msina Maxwell, Jada L. Miller, Zach, Ira Miller, Ava Christopher Morell, Briana Rose Royston, Kristen Marie Saxon, Jenna Lexus [Applause] Wilson, Kelsey Lynn Young, the School School of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics from the Computer Science Pathway. Colin James Bell, Matthew J. Del Grande, Tristan Lee Edwards, Jerel H. Fala, [Applause] Ethan C. Jackson, Terrell J. Little Tate Xavier Merson, Sed Gazy, Raza, Alex Marshall Simpson, Gabriel Giovani Spinazola, James Thomas III, Nicholas George Thomas, Daryl Jerome Turner III, Nasir Dre Williams, Daniel MJ Wilson, [Applause] Elijah Cole Young from the engineering pathway, Ethan Robert Barnett, Lionel Lamont Boehner Jr. Matthew Richard Bubbleitz, Colin Patrick Burke, Amber Nicole Campbell, Cadence Leila Cassidy, Jacob Dean Clark, Hunter J. Curran, Jamie Miguel Diva
061Chase Alexander Fry Riley A [Applause] Grove Giovani Alberto [Applause] Hallow Jordan Bernard [Applause] Jackson Luke Aaron [Applause] Jeffrey Dossier Phillip Johnson Sydney P. [Applause] Kanto Nicholas J. Campista Samad Amir [Applause] Lee Neil Lou Croy Bradford McGee [Applause] Dominique Khalil McCrae Henry Nyasagade Carter Jackson ODay Bruce David Patrick Li Pu Awina Ava Maline Ramlochan Dominic Vincent Riffle Miles Benjamin Rosenthal Chase Benjamin Saunders Dyson Jamal Scott, Aaron Sylio, Brooklyn Na [Applause] Smith, Sarah Grace Sito, Arlene Nicole [Music] Taplan, Byron Mitchell Taylor Jr. Jacob Carl Wagner, Robert C. Wagner, [Applause] Broden Case Whitlock from the Forensics Pathway. Paige Maya Denny, Stefano Aera Samame, [Applause] Sierra Claire Herbert, Matthew Steven Lapert Ailen Rice Mahoney Gabriella Joy Alton Nathan Joseph [Applause] Pondan Gabrielle Marie Rochester from the science pathway. Jaden Michael Bush, John Jacob Mara Kongu, Zoe Lawson, Adam Sorrow,
062[Applause] Ian Amomar Taylor from the School of Skilled and Technical Trades, Construction Machinery Operator Pathway. today. Chase Riley Bean, Zachary R. [Applause] Hulet, Giovani Reed Marion, [Music] Monttero, Brandon Edward Pete Lock, Chase Steven Vickers, Gunnar James Whitehead, I'm good. Christopher Joseph [Applause] Yoast Heat. Heat. [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] Thank you, Mr. Latavitz and Mrs. Wong. Will the class of 2025 please [Applause] stand with the power vested in me by the Apple Cornmick School District Board of Education through the Delaware State Board of Education. I present to you for graduation these members of Adessa High School's class of 2025. Congratul Congratulations class of 25. [Applause] Class of 2025, is my pleasure as your principal to lead you in the first official act as an OS alumni. The turning of the tassel from right to left symbolizes
063your transition from students to graduates and the new beginnings that you will encounter. Please move your tassels from the right side to the [Applause] left. Congratulations graduates. [Applause] Families, families, please remain in your seats until all graduates have exited the gym. Your graduates will meet you in the parking lot. Please exit the school grounds in a safe and orderly fashion. We appreciate your cooperation. Once again, congratulations. [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] [Applause] [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. [Music] Heat. [Music] Heat. Heat. Heat.
064[Music]