Pride, reflection, and excitement filled the air as Southern Aroostook High School celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 in a heartfelt ceremony held on June 13, 2025 at the Southern Aroostook high School Gymnasium.
The event marked a milestone for the graduating seniors and their families, as students received their diplomas and closed an important chapter of their lives. The ceremony was highlighted by inspiring student speeches, recognition of academic achievement, and a moving keynote address.
Four members of the graduating class took the stage to share personal stories and the lessons they learned throughout high school. Their reflections ranged from overcoming adversity and the importance of friendship to the value of perseverance and embracing change.
Ethan Collier said, “One of the important things I have learned from each of you is the importance of caring for one another. In a world that can sometimes feel cold and indifferent, you all showed me the warmth of human connection. When I faced challenges, you rallied around me, showing me that I was never alone. You all have great empathy and compassion that has inspired me to be a better friend and to extend the same kindness to others.”
Hope Curry spoke about her pathway to graduation and how her classmates embraced her when she moved here two years ago. “Have you ever walked into a room full of strangers and wondered if, one day, it might feel like home? That's how I felt two years ago when I first walked through the doors of this school. I didn't grow up here. I didn't start this journey in the same place as many of you. But today, standing here as one of you, I've learned that “home” isn't always a place. Sometimes, it's the people who make you feel like you belong.”
Addyson Schmidt spoke about her time with her classmates. “You’ve all given me fond memories to look back on, and you’ve all taught me valuable life lessons. Growing up in this small community, with the same classmates every single year has given me the opportunity to make lifelong friends that others are not as fortunate to have. We watched each other grow up and become incredible individuals who I know will all make marks in the world. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for the memories, laughs, tears, and more.”
Rylee Webb also shared about her experience with her classmates. “We’ve lived through every season together. We've seen each other at our absolute best or worst, and somehow, we’ve come through it with unbreakable bonds, inside jokes, and memories we’ll carry for life. I want to thank you all for helping me become the person I am. I feel incredibly blessed to have grown up alongside almost all of you, to watch you become who you are today.”
The keynote address was delivered by Mrs. Bonnie Collier, a longtime English teacher at the school who was selected by the senior class to speak. Known for her passion of English and dedication, Mrs. Collier shared words of wisdom rooted in literature, life experience, and a deep connection to the students.
In addition to the speeches, numerous scholarships and academic awards were presented to recognize outstanding achievement, leadership, and community involvement. These honors highlighted the hard work and dedication of students who excelled in academics, leadership, and service. Southern Aroostook Community High School Seniors received scholarship awards of over $300,000.
The ceremony concluded with the long-awaited presentation of diplomas, as each graduate proudly accepted their diploma to the cheers and applause of family, friends, and faculty.
The evening ended with hugs, photos, and the tossing of caps, a fitting celebration of a class ready to take on the world.
Congratulations to the Class of 2025!!