Pittsfield High Class Overcame Obstacles To Graduate
 Pittsfield High School graduated 225 seniors on Sunday at Tanglewood in Lenox. See more photos here. |
"Academically, athletically, socially, we as a class have put in the effort, overcome obstacles, and persevered to reach this day," Connor Kelley, class president, said from the Tanglewood stage. "The class of 2011 is unique in that we have had five principals within the last four years. I am proud to say that our class determination has helped us to navigate through that constant change. As a result, we have become stronger and have come together to find our identity."
When the class's prom money was stolen about a week before the event, seniors became determined to re-raise the money, he said, and that determination has given the class confidence. That confidence mixed with determination will lead to success, he told his classmates.
"We are a class who undoubtedly has no fear of speaking its mind. No matter where you are headed next year, this will be invaluable. Confidence is imperative in college, as you begin to make lifelong connections and work toward your chosen career. In the work force, confidence in your ideas and performance will be crucial. And for those of you who have chosen to serve our country in the armed forces, I cannot begin to speak to the amount of confidence you possess," Kelley said. "Our experiences here have changed us all, instilling within us confidence and determination, values that will now be essential to maintain as we walk across this stage and begin new journeys."
Superintendent Howard J. "Jake" Eberwein III added grit to that list, telling the students that they will need grit and a sense of purpose to succeed. Eberwein then gave some final lesson to the class on 1970s music. Using lyrics from Cheap Trick, Paul Simon, K.C. and the Sunshine Band and James Taylor, Eberwein told the students to enjoy life.
Mayor James Ruberto said that life is about the "three L's" — live, love and laugh. Ruberto told the students to dream big and live life to the fullest.
"Yesterday is history, learn from it but don't brew over it," Ruberto said. "Today is a gift, celebrate it."
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While the class gathered to celebrated the day of finally completing high school, they took a moment to reflect on the people who helped them get there.
"This day would not have been possible without the tireless work of our teachers, guidance counselors, class advisors, and the graduation committee. Perhaps most importantly – we are grateful for the encouragement and advice we have received along the way from our parents and guardians," Kelley said. "I need to especially thank my family. I know I don’t say it enough, but I love you guys, and I couldn't have gotten to this point without you."
School Committee Chairwoman Kathleen Amuso reflected on how proud the students have made their parents with hitting each milestone and she encouraged the students to continue making them proud.
"It's not the end of a journey, it's a milestone," Amuso said. "Beyond graduation you will face challenges ... Make sure you take care of your parents and continue to make them proud."
Creating chuckles throughout of the packed-house crowd, Amuso joked that the "circle of life" will continue with the parents moving back in with the students. That includes not answering the cell phone that their children pay for, saying they are going to the "senior center" and instead going to the beach and asking what their children plan on making for them for dinner the moment they walk in the door.
Amuso also announced that the class reeled in $1,116,202 in scholarships this year.
Principal Tracey Benson, graduating his first class as principal, shared a story of his second-grade teacher and how much she had motivated him and reminded the class to always remember where they came from as they move into the future.
"Think of your supporting cast. We know where you've been. Where you are going, who knows?" Benson said. "You've been successful, you've been educated, you have all the tools. I am proud of the young men and women sitting in front of me."
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