‘A product of our own efforts’

Clearview Regional High School hosted its graduation ceremony for 310 students on June 17 at the school’s football stadium.

Hundreds of families were there to cheer the graduates.

“We stand before you today as a product of our own efforts,” said salutatorian Benjamin Weng. “Supported by our teachers and families, each of us challenged ourselves to grow and succeed. Entering high school, few could say who they truly were. Fewer still could say who they were going to be.

“But through our own continued perseverance and dedication,” Weng added, “spurring from our own two hands, we stand before you today as accomplished individuals and soon-to-be graduates.”

While some students talked about getting to the big moment, others recalled smaller moments that taught them important life lessons. Valedictorian Rohan Kurani recalled the time he accidentally set off the fire alarm after slamming his adjacent locker and causing a panic.

“I tried to keep my cool, convinced I was on the fast track to suspension, especially when Mr. (Keith) Brook summoned me to his office,” Kurani explained, referring to the school’s principal. “I rehearsed my apology on the way there, preparing for the worst. But when I walked in, he simply said, ‘Mistakes happen. But please don’t do it again.’

“That moment taught me something simple, yet profound,” Kurani added. “Sometimes stuff happens. But as Frank Sinatra’s immortal song states, that’s life. Almost everything we will face in this world is, quite frankly, completely out of our control. As we progress forward in the book of our lives, we can expect to experience the highest highs, the lowest lows and everything in between.

“Above all else, and as paradoxical as it may seem, the only constant that we can be sure of is change.”

The graduation celebration included a performance by the senior vocal ensemble of the national anthem; “Seasons of Love,” from the movie “Rent”; and the original song “Alma Mater.” Also in attendance were Clearview board of ed members as well as teachers from the high school and its administration, among them Brook, who addressed both the students and the parents who helped them along the way.

“Your tireless support, unwavering encouragement and countless sacrifices have laid the foundation for the milestone that we celebrate tonight,” he noted. “You’ve been more than just your son and daughter’s biggest fans. You’ve been mentors, confidants and most importantly, amazing examples of dedication and perseverance.”

Once the graduation caps had been tossed, members of the Class of 2025 hugged each other, celebrating the moment together as friends.