Farewell 2013 graduates

Hawks leave The Nest

    For four years, North Harford teachers strove to accomplish their student mission statement: To challenge students and encourage learning for a lifetime of success. Mission accomplished. On Wednesday, June 5 at 6pm, North Harford’s senior class of 2013, received diplomas in front of hundreds of family and friends.

“I’m definitely going to miss the school spirit and how it brought everyone in the school closer together. Quack pack for life,” stated Cole Knox.

    In the days leading up to graduation, seniors were required to attend a series of rehearsals that took place  in the auditorium, outside, and at Harford Community College.

    “I felt mostly prepared. But since it wasn’t real graduation, it’s hard knowing what to expect,”  said senior Elizabeth Slemaker, explaining how ready she felt for the big day.

     After several years of graduating at Aberdeen High School, this year Harford Community College decided to host the Hawks.   

    The APG Federal Credit Union Arena was opened in 2012 and includes 2500 permanent seats (plus 700 more), innovative lighting and sound and 8,000 square feet of hardwood floor.

    Senior Elyse Kufera had a positive reaction to the switch, “Change is always good. HCC is a much better location, it’s our own community and it’s a larger space.”

    Typical to NH graduations,  platform guests included the Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Tomback, Councilman Chad Shrodes and Senator Barry Glassman whom all made remarks to those in attendance.    Each speech applauded the seniors’ excellence. Some provoked tears, laughter, or both. Valedictorian Thomas Ogden and senior class president Drew Becker both spoke.

“North Harford is one big home filled with friends and family. We’re there for each other,” said  senior Jessica Shade.

   As for advice, Shade also provided wise words for all underclassmen, “Plan ahead and make the most of the time you have here.”    

    Beyond the evening of graduation, seniors also had several other opportunities to gather to celebrate their accomplishments.

    On May 30, the Senior Awards Assembly was held in the auditorium at 6:00pm. Numerous awards and scholarships were given by various organizations. The salutatorian, Gabe Lackey made a speech during the awards along with Mr. Mark Szot, Mr. Ed Herbold and others. 146 seniors attended this ceremony, an invitation over the phone to attend for those receiving recognition. The amount of money offered was $7,347,408 but $46,525 was awarded May 30.

“I really enjoyed planning the event because it recognizes the hard work that our students put into their education. It recognizes the best of the best but also students that have overcome adversity to achieve success,” said Szot.

   Jake Creighton was one of the winners of the Merit Scholastic Award, which recognizes those in the top 5% of their class.

     “For the first three awards (Merit Scholastic Award, Presidential Award Program and Honor’s pin) it was nice to be recognized for academic achievement and it shows that all my hard work and perseverance didn’t go unnoticed,” said Creighton. “The last award (Social Studies Excellence Award) surprised me. It was a great feeling that the social studies teachers had nominated and chosen me out of everyone in the school.”

    Sunday, June 2 also marked a major milestone.  The Baccalaureate ceremony took place at the home of the Hawks at 3pm.  The religious service included a sermon for the graduating class, encouraging them to ‘Go with God.’ Seniors Kevin Mackey and Drew Becker introduced Pastors Bruce Riley and Dave Mason. Pastor Mason gave welcoming words that motivated students to not waste their life.

    “Your attitude is your choice,” said Mason.

    As has been tradition in the past, the orchestra and  chorus both performed at this ceremony. Seniors Rachel Celozzi, Zoe Tanner, Ariel Breidenbaugh, Abbey Combs, Emily Boegner, Patrick Yarrington, Joanna Moser and Cody Kendig were some of the student performers.

    “I really enjoyed this class of seniors and I formed a lot of bonds and connections with many of them. I hope that many will stay in touch and update me when they start college”, said Mr. Fernandez. “This is a group that makes me feel comfortable about our future and proud that I was able to teach, or coach so many of them. I will not forget this group of young people that had such a range of characters, personalities, and gifts.”