The graduates of the class of 2009, dressed in their black and red gowns and matching caps, walked and sometimes ran jubilantly across the stage in the Blue Gym to receive their diplomas on the afternoon of Sunday, June 7.

    With 241 graduates, the class of 2009 is the largest ever from Chelsea High School Family members, friends, and teachers took their seats in the packed gym to watch and support their loved ones as they were handed their reward for making it through the road bumps of high school and completing the first important steps of their lives.

    The opening procedure included the seniors entering the gymnasium and taking their seats and was followed by our national anthem sung by senior Carlos Alvarez. Everyone stood and listened as Alvarez displayed the range and strength of his voice in “The Star-Spangled Banner,” taking full advantage of this amazing honor.

    Enlightening speeches were given by many important figures that wished to acknowledge the graduates who worked so hard to get here. Speakers included our own principal, Mr. Mullany who spoke to the Class of 2009 about the future and stated that today was also his own father’s birthday. By saying this, he wanted all of the graduates to thank his/her parents for everything they had done and express your gratitude because many would not be sitting where they were without the support and constant motivation of their parents. Our Valedictorian, The assistant superintendent’s daughter, Molly Burke, our Salutatorian, Michelle Cheng, and of course the senior class president, Abeo Powder also gave wonderful speeches about their experience in Chelsea High and what the future holds for everyone.

    One speech that I believe stood above all the others was that given by State Senator Anthony Galluccio, who represents Chelsea. He made a heart-warming speech of his own experience of rags to riches – how his own parents were immigrants from Italy and poor but with hard work and the help of those who believed in him, he was able to go to college. Galluccio said he is fighting in the legislature for the right of everyone to get financial support for college.

    The choir then followed by belting out “I Believe,” by Yolanda Adams, causing all the seniors and just about everyone else in the gymnasium to stand up, clap their hands, and sway side to side with the music. After announcing the winners of scholarships totaling more than $400,000 it was time to award diplomas. All graduates must have been excited and anxious at the same time. They could not wait to receive their diplomas, but no one tripped as feared. The crowd stood to try to get pictures, and I have never seen so many people in this gym before. After the last graduates got back to their seats they simultaneously heaved their caps towards the ceiling like black and red confetti.

    I hope they all celebrated well with their families and friends. I cannot wait until it is my turn to walk that stage. I want to wish the entire Class of 2009 good luck and remember; this is not the end, it is only the beginning.