From COVID to climate change to an uncertain new world order, life has not been easy for the Class of 2025.
But the weather was perfect last night, for Staples High School’s 138th graduation ceremony.
The sky was blue. So too were the robes worn by the 430-plus graduates.
The air was warm. So were the smiles of the seniors (and their relatives, friends and teachers).
Principal Stafford Thomas remembered Max Harper — the young man who died in an accident last fall — as a “ray of light.”
Staples principal Stafford Thomas.
Thomas also spoke about the seniors’ “shared voyage through the most competitive high school in Connecticut.” But, he noted, “you didn’t just chase excellence. You built community.” And, he assured them, “this harbor will always be home.”
Choral members repeated that theme, with a stirring rendition of “The Road Home.”
Choralaires and senior choral members, conducted by Lauren Pine.
Valedictorian Abe Lobsenz and salutatorian Matty Guadarrama spoke both personally, and to the class as a whole. Luca Caniato and Alexandra Hackett led the turning of the tassel.
Valedictorian Abe Lobsenz
And then – like 137 classes before them — the Staples seniors became Staples graduates, ready to take their place in the world.
“06880” photographer (and Staples sophomore) Ryan Allen captured the joy of the day.
From left: Superintendent of schools Thomas Scarice, assistant principal Patrick Micinilio and principal Stafford Thomas lead the processional.
Principal Thomas acknowledged 2 graduates who will join the armed forces: Morgan Samuel (Coast Guard, above) and Alessandro Alderucci (Boston College ROTC).
Head football coach Matty Jacowleff, helping out on the stage.
A fist bump for the principal.
Two joyful graduates …
… and a third.
Luca Caniato and Alexandra Hackett prepare to turn the tassels.
Celebrating with friends …
… and family.
A job well done, Class of 2025! (All photos/Ryan Allen)
Always so exciting to see high school graduation pictures, as it brings back memories of my own high school graduation which was a mere 59 years ago! Congratulations to the class of 2025!
Priscilla, Any relation to Herb Long? Congratulations to all the 2025 grads. By the way, there was another Long that graduated Staples in 1958, but I can’t recall his first name.
Hurrah & Congraduations (😎) to all in The Class of ‘25! Enjoy every moment now and ahead. Trust me, 50 Years flew by in the wink & blink of an eye…. Celebrate Everything!
David Squires, (Staples ‘75) <~~~~~ Whaaaaat?