New Kent High School Class of 2021 overcomes challenges to remain #NewKentStrong

New Kent High School's Class of 2021 anxiously awaits their confirmation as graduates during Friday night ceremonies.

Andre' Jones photos

Different venue. Different circumstances. Yet, still #NewKentStrong.

Supporters of 214 graduates of New Kent High School’s Class of 2021 gathered inside of the high school’s gymnasium during Friday night’s commencement ceremony.

New Kent High School Principal Christopher Valdrighi opening remarks emphasized the importance of the night for the graduating seniors.

“It’s not just for you, it’s about them and your supporters,” he told the Class of 2021. “Each and everyone in here has invested time, resources, love, and leadership for you to get to where you are today.”

Senior Class President Wade Grubbs recollected the times with his fellow classmates, speaking from the heart about the passage of time and how the past has prepared them for the future.

“The day we have been anticipating is finally here,” he commented. “It has come fast, almost too fast.

“This is a major step in the journey of our lives,” Grubbs continued. “It took an act of commitment to get here, but it was also pride.

“Wherever the future takes you, let it take you with purpose wherever it may be,” as he began to wrap up his speech. “Reflect back on moments that helped us grow to be who we are today.”

Class Salutatorian Haylie Bayens spoke about the pathway the Class of 2021 had to take in order to arrive to the graduation state.

“We’ve been challenge in high school and not in the typical way,” she said. “We look back and we say, ‘This can’t be the end, can it?’

“This is not the end, but the beginning,” Bayens continued. “It may be scary sometimes but remember those who helped you along the way.

“To the Class of 2021, you deserve the praise, and I couldn’t have any better classmates to reach this accomplishment with.”

Class Valedictorian Isaac Barber said that while he didn’t spend as much time as he liked in the high school, the lessons learned along the way were vital for all of his classmates.

“We have learned to live life during these times,” he said, speaking on dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. “You can learn about yourself if you have to deal with situations like we did.

“We got a trial year of what it’s like to be on our own,” Barber continued, referencing the flexibility of online courses due to school buildings physically closing. “How many adults can say that they had a year like our senior year was?

“Two groups, both introverts and extroverts, were affected by this pandemic,” he said as he began to wrap up his speech. “Both groups lost and gained something. The key point is don’t become institutionalized. Do what makes you happy. If you want to learn, why limit yourself? You have so much more to give and to be greater in this world.”

Superintendent of Schools Brian Nichols message to the Class of 2021 focused on the ever-so-significant #NewKentStrong motto used by the school system.

“Your senior year taught us many lessons that will last us a lifetime,” he said.“ Each challenge showed us how amazing you are. Your leadership will make the world stronger.

“You are leaving New Kent better than you arrived here,” Nichols concluded.

A selfie opportunity presents itself for (l to r) Magnolia Lang, Kirsten Miller, and Abby Lindsey prior to graduation ceremonies.

Kamryn Faison (right) pins a pink ribbon and adjusts the tassels of classmate Joey Campbell (left).

New Kent Superintendent of Schools Brian Nichols (left) grabs a selfie with outgoing graduate Jason Hall (right).

On stage, New Kent graduate Nathan Staskiel (right) prepares for a hug from mother and school board chairwoman Andrea Staskiel after his name is called.

At the conclusion of graduation ceremonies, Natalie Filipowicz (left) is excited to receive her diploma and shirt to commemorate the occasion.

The little sisters of New Kent graduate Rylee Solaimani slide in for a family picture to celebrate her accomplishment.

Mark Daniel Jr. is the center of attention as he poses for a picture with family and friends.

New Kent track athlete Aaron Walker takes in a graduation moment with family before prepping for the state track meet on June 18.