Schools

Kenwood Seniors Ready for Next Chapter

Nearly 400 students received their diplomas Monday at CCBC Essex.

was a member of and softball teams and involved in countless other school activities.

Still, the 18-year-old said she felt as she graduated from high school Monday that there was much more she wanted to accomplish. 

"The last four years went by so fast," said Williams, who will attend in the fall. "You wonder if there is something we missed out on. You also wonder if this is the last time you'll ever speak to some of your friends again. At the same time, this is an exciting moment and I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds."

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That was the sentiment shared by many of Williams' fellow members of the Class of 2012 as nearly 400 students received their diplomas Monday as part of the school's 80th commencement exercise at CCBC Essex.

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In all, graduating seniors received more than $1.2 million in combined scholarships, Kenwood principal Paul Martin said.

Martin told those in attendance at the packed college gymnasium that parents, guardians and loved ones can breath a sigh of relief after years of offering support in helping students reach this milestone.

"The young people graduating high school today have the skills necessary to move their life forward in the 21st century whether that be in college, the military or in the world of work," Martin said.

Others that spoke included class president Elijah Hawkes, salutatorian Gatheru Gitau and valedictorian Sarah Swan.

Graduating senior Elayne Mendoza said the last four years at Kenwood have been such a positive experience, but she's ready to leave now.

"This is something we've been waiting for for so long now," said Mendoza, who will attend CCBC Essex in the fall. "High school has prepared us for adulthood and we're ready to write the next chapter in our lives."

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