Newton County Academy seniors took their final steps of their high school careers Thursday night, as the school held commencement for the Class of 2019 in the school gymnasium.
The class of 25 students was surrounded by family and friends to celebrate their completion of their coursework and moving on to their next stage of life, whether that is at a junior college, college or moving into the workforce.
Valedictorian Anna Laurel Moody said that while they all choose different paths after high school, the Class of 2019 was bound together with a common cause — graduation.
“Here at Newton County Academy, we have been pushed to put our best foot forward and accomplish all the we can,” Moody said. “On behalf of myself and my fellow graduates I would like to take a moment to thank all of our friends, family, teachers, and most importantly, our Savior Jesus Christ for helping us every step of the way. I am thankful for the many opportunities which God has given me and those of you who have encouraged my walk with Christ and shown me what it looks like to live a life for Christ. I am thankful for the lessons that you all have taught us, and I pray that we treasure those virtues as we go on to college, to work, and as we pursue God’s purpose in each of our lives.”
Salutatorian Marla Graham reminded her classmates that they are responsible for their own decisions that will affect the rest of their lives.
“As each of us go out into the world, remember that we are all starting with a clean slate,” Graham said. “So forget about past mistakes and focus on the future. You cannot do anything about the past, but you will always have the opportunity to make a better future for yourselves.”
