The Marlboro County High School class of 2023 walked across the stage on June 3 and into the next phase of their lives.
Valedictorian Madison Woodle thought of their entire lives as books.
The first few chapters, she said during her speech, consist of playing outside, watching cartoons, and starting elementary school.
Later chapters consist of the students reaching high school and learning to drive.
“Now, our chapter at Marlboro County High School is coming to an end,” Woodle said. “Although our chapter at Marlboro County High School is coming to an end, our books are not yet closing. From here, some of us may enter the workforce, join the military, or even decide to continue our education.”
As Woodle looked out at the class of 2023, she saw future nurses, lawyers, firefighters, soldiers, and much more.
“I have no doubt that our futures hold endless possibilities, ” she said. “Congratulations to the class of 2023, and never forget, ‘Once a bulldawg, always a bulldawg.’”
Salutatorian Aubree Miller noted what an achievement it was to graduate.
“After four years of trying to get an education during a nationwide pandemic, we have made it to this day,” she said. “Back in 2019, we started off with a class of 300-plus students. You are not here with the class you started high school with. Your hard work has paid off because you are here today.”
Miller noted that her fellow graduates were all gifted in unique ways.
“Now it is time to go out into the world and share those gifts,” she said. “This class is destined for greatness, and if you do not remember anything else from what I
said today, please hold my last statement close to your hearts.”
Class President Jermaine Markey Purvis Jr. said God got them through the hard school days.
“We beat the odds, and we made it. I am sure it is going to be hard at times in the real world, but when it gets hard God is going to do just what He said because He is GOD! So just keep praying, trusting, and believing in Him,” he said.
He ended with a quote from J Cole— “There is no such thing as a life that’s better than yours.”
“Which is simply saying never compare your life to others,” Purvis said. “There’s no comparison between the sun and the moon. They both shine when it’s their time. Class of 2023, our time to shine is right now.”
It was the first graduation for MCHS graduate and principal Michael Dease who shared the achievements of the graduating class.
Students were awarded $3,551,000 in scholarships and awards as a class. The class had 17 graduates from Northeastern Technical College with six receiving their associate degrees.
Dease reminded them that it will take intelligence to make a difference in the world but not to suppress their voice to hide from others.
“You must have a clear vision,” he said. ” Parents, their lease is up. No, they’re not being evicted. They just can’t reside here any longer. They will sign new leases in life and they are duly and truly prepared for the next chapter in their life.”
During the ceremony, an honorary diploma was presented to the family of Emily Rae Paul.
Media Specialist LaTalia Heyward said, “Emily Rae Paul was a beautiful young woman whose bright eyes and warm smile greeted us before her words did, but once you had the opportunity to speak with her you would truly be entertained.
Heyward noted her laughter and personality made her a friend to all who knew her.
“The love and joy she gave to us in life continue in the gift of the heart she gave to Cynthia Kelley,” Heyward said. “Emily, although your light was extinguished too soon, a piece of you will forever remain within our hearts.”