56 ACV seniors become alumni
PARKER — Friends and family members of Allegheny-Clarion Valley High School class of 2019 halted their conversations and rose to their feet Friday evening as the 56 graduating seniors entered the gymnasium.
Dalton Callander said he made a lot of memories during his senior year, and he will miss seeing his friends every day.
“It's bittersweet. I'm happy to move on with life but sad to see friends go,” Callander said.
Callander will move on to Slippery Rock University to study physical therapy in the fall.
Before the ceremony, Roe Baum said everybody was excited about the ceremony. She said it's overwhelming to think that next year she won't be going to the same school, but instead will be attending the University of Pittsburgh to study business and art.
“It hasn't set in yet,” Baum said. “It's going to be weird.”
Arika McCall said she is as thankful to her teachers as she is to her family and friends.
“The teachers definitely care about each student,” she said. “They actually cared and wanted each student to succeed.”
McCall will attend St. Vincent College next year, majoring in finance and marketing.
Principal William Jordan welcomed the graduates. He said the class will always be connected to the school and himself.
“You, Class of 2019 will always be fettered to this place,” Jordan said. “Take these memories with you and never forget as you face your futures as A-C Valley alumni.”
Salutatorian Emilee Klingler said the Class of 2019 is close-knit through their experiences together.
“As a class, we have accomplished a lot together,” Klingler said. “Whether you realize it or not, we are truly a family.”
Valedictorian Abby Freeman said she is thankful to all of her classmates for helping one another to achieve their goals.
“If this were Mean Girls, I would be breaking the tiara for all of you right now,” she said. “I am so proud of us.”
Venango County Magisterial District Judge Patrick Lowrey was the commencement speaker. Lowrey graduated from A-C Valley High School in 1988.
Lowrey said the graduates have received a “solid” education, and he gave them some advice for continuing on to solid lives.
“Good choices and the courage to see those choices through,” he said. “The journey of life is one awesome ride, enjoy it.”
