'What we have done and what we're becoming,': Wareham High's class of 2025

From small hands of kindergarteners learning how to hold pencils to the seniors holding their diplomas firmly in their grasps, the Wareham High School class of 2025 looks ahead to the future with tassels turned and smiles plastered on their faces. 

A sea of blue graduation gowns and the jittering of nervous legs could be seen on Spillane Field Friday, June 6 as graduation kicked off. Families cheered in the stands with air horns blaring, signs waving and voices at the ready for their students.

Valedictorian Lain Potter gave a speech during the ceremony and said she wasn't nervous until she sat down amongst her peers. 

"My heart was beating, I was like "I just need to calm down,"" she said. "It wasn't that bad but I was nervous. I liked being able to talk to the whole class. There's not a lot of times our class is together as a whole group."

In her speech, Potter described the community and class as being close-knit and said how special it is to her. Potter also  noted her and her classmates' involvement in school activities  and how it helped shape their high school experiences. 

“These students have enriched their time here by forming bonds with coaches and advisors, teammates and peers, and making lifelong memories," she said. 

Emma McWilliams, Salutartorian, focused on the perseverance and drive of the class of 2025. She described the obstacles COVID-19 had presented and how she watched her class overcome them. 

“Sometimes, just getting through the day was nearly impossible…but that did not stop us. Each day, we pushed ourselves to get up, get into that building, and be successful,” she said. 

Teachers, school committee members and mentors sat opposite to the graduates. Among those donned in black graduation gowns was Principal Scott Palladino, who spoke of the seniors dedication and achievements.

"I have no doubt that each and every one of you will continue to make a positive difference in whatever paths you pursue," he said. 

Palladino said he has been a part of 32 graduations and that each year has had a different meaning. He said the class of 2025 was classy.

"They're a nice group of kids, they're willing to help each other out," he said. "They're very supportive of each other, whether it be a sporting event, drama presentation — or spring concert. They celebrate each others victories."

The class of 2025 officers announced that all remaining funds in their class account will be donated to the class of 2026. 

As the tassels turned and caps were thrown into the sky, One Direction's "Night Changes," played the newest alumni off the field to celebrate their achievements with family and friends.