Good afternoon parents, teachers, guests and above all, our fellow classmates.Yes, you are seeing clearly. For the 2nd time in YRHS history, there is a co-valedictorian address.Think of us like pizza Two for one! Even though this is rare, we stand together honoured to represent the 43rd graduating class of our school.
First off, we would like to thank our parents. You have been there for us through the highs and the lows of our entire lives. From our first steps as a small child, to the life-risking driving lessons that you willingly took on. We feel your pain.From putting up with our bipolar mood swings, to helping us find the perfect first date outfit, you have always stood by us. Especially in these last few months, as we have been preparing for grad and what our future hold.You may not have heard it in a while, but we love you. Thank you for everything that you do for us.Grads, your families are extremely proud of you. You can't imagine the sense of relief they're experiencing. This would be the most opportune time to ask for money.
To the School Board and community, we would like to thank you for your contribution to our future. It has not gone unnoticed. You make the school an inviting place to learn, as well as to experience many unique activities, such as conferences, sports teams, and other clubs. To quote Nelson Mandela, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." Thank you for your continuous support and generosity.
To the teachers, we thank you for your patience and kindness throughout the years. Without your many efforts, we would not have achieved our many successes as a class. From teaching us dissection, to how to write the best literary essay ever, you have helped us through them all. We appreciate all the time you've took out of your busy lives to accommodate ours, especially those who coach, lead teams or stay after class to help us understand concepts or lessons. The lessons we have learned from you, inside the classroom and out, will follow us forever.
We are all gathered on stage together as the Class of 2010. Although we have started from different elementary schools, been involved in different teams and sports, and even come from different towns or cities, today we are graduating together. We began in this school as the Grade 9's who stood in crowds in the middle of the hall creating roadblocks between classes, but have transformed into young men and women eager to spread our wings. We have many memories together, such as being humiliated in front of the school as a freshie, attending crowded pep rallies, dressing head-to-toe in green for Riderville week, and watching The Miracle of Life documentary in Bio. Today is not only a day of looking forward to the future, but also a day of reflecting on all those who have helped us succeed, such as family, friends and teachers. We will always be grateful for all that you've done for us.
To conclude, we would like to quote Elle Woods from Legally Blonde: "First impressions are not always correct, you must always have faith in people, and most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself."
Congratulations Class of 2010, best of luck in all your plans for the future. Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
