SCHS Holds Graduation

Stephens County High School held graduation for the Class of 2018 on Friday night in the Currahee Arena.

Valedictorian Cassidy Zheng spoke to the graduates and encouraged them to make a difference. “We are entering a world where everything will define us-our past, what we do, our circumstances, but it doesn’t have to be like that. From this moment on we control our own future-not the other way around. We have the power to impact lives the same way that ours have been impacted in Stephens County. So no matter what you do, do it with the best interest in mind and remember where and why you came from.”

Salutatorian Christopher Carringer encouraged the graduates to go beyond the stereotypes “I look out in a crowd like this and confidently say that each and every one of us are more than just a stereotype or label. Society has labeled us lazy, Generation Z, the Tide pod generation, entitled, ignorant, insecure, and content to let things pass us by. My friends, I implore you to be more than this. Don’t let who you are be defined by what the world says you are, but what choices we make daily. It is our choices that got us here and our choices that will define who we are when we leave here tonight.”

Stephens County High School Principal Scott Kersh encouraged the graduates to dream and pursue those dreams. “Hopefully you already have a dream, or you will form a dream and pursue it doggedly. Don’t let anyone dictate or crush your dream. Nobody can define or crush your dream if you don’t allow it. Have self confidence and resolve, and you will persevere.”

251 students received diplomas at the ceremony. Honorary diplomas were also presented in the names of Macklen-Jace Eli Alexander, Kainan Terrell Green, and Danyel William Seeley.