Schools

Class of 2013 Graduates Told To Find Own Successes

Montville High School hands out diplomas to 165 graduates

Among the advice offered to the Class of 2013 by Principal Jeffrey S. Theodoss of Montville High School was a suggestion that they make the turtle their favorite animal.

Why? Because turtles always have to stick their necks out.

Risk and perseverance were among the themes at the school’s commencement as Montville High School granted diplomas to 165 graduates. The ceremony also gave 15 diplomas to graduates of Montville Adult Education.

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Rodney Butler, chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council, was selected as the keynote speaker for the event. Butler asked everyone to turn to somebody nearby and thank them.

“As awkward as that is, it’s so meaningful,” he said. “It feels so good to give thanks.”

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Butler, a 1995 graduate of Montville High School, said the experience remains part of his identity. He showed the Class of 2013 that he still has his football socks from that time. He advised the graduates to judge their success by personal satisfaction, saying he considers that one has to try to fail.

“It is a crazy world out there, but there’s so much you can control,” he said. “And those things you can’t control aren’t worth worrying about.”

Theodoss said the graduates will face disappointments in their lives, but urged them to use their dreams as a road map to success.

“You will retain some vivid memories of the road traveled, but the bonds created with your classmates, your teammates, your homeroom-mates, your club-mates, and your CCD-mates during your 12 years or more of friendship will be remembered forever,” he said.

Class valedictorian Paul Hanrahan advised his classmates that they should not be afraid to swallow their pride and ask for help.

“True strength is nor in never falling, but in rising every time we fall,” he said.

Rachael Orbe, class salutatorian, said many of the students first met each other by stepping on the bus to kindergarten. She said that like that experience, the class is at a turning point.

“We are accepting the next step in our lives,” she said. “Taking this next step is something we must do on our own.”

Connor Leeman, the Class of 2013 class president, said the graduates who demonstrate leadership qualities will be the most successful. He said the class should strive to show integrity, respect, charisma, and confidence.

“You are my peers, my classmates, and most importantly my friends,” he concluded. “I wish you nothing but the best in the future.”


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