BEARVILLE — Pierce County High School’s Class of 2025 received their diplomas Friday night in one of the earliest graduation ceremonies in recent memory.
A new school calendar in place for the next two years, fixes the commencement ceremony a week earlier than normal — and prior to the end of the school year, set for May 20.
The air began to cool off as the May 16 ceremony got underway — after a near-record high temperature in the mid-90s Friday afternoon.
The 236 members of the class received their diplomas before an overflow crowd at Bear Stadium.
The theme of the evening was built around moving on, letting go and most of all — faith in God.
In his Valedictorian address, Will McIntosh struck a thankful tone quoting 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
Pierce County High School 2025 Valedictorian Will McIntosh addresses those gathered Friday, May 16 for the school’s commencement for the 236 class members. Photo by JASON DEAL
McIntosh thanked all those who helped the group: parents and families, staff and classmates.
He related the experiences of the past year with Hurricane Helene in September and the snow storm in January.
“As students, we enjoyed the time off and seeing everyone’s pictures, but more importantly, we watched our community show up for us and we showed up for each other. Donations poured into the high school and students and community members volunteered their time to help others in need. I don’t think anyone can argue, Pierce County is the best there is and we are lucky to have been a part of the Pierce County School System.”
He told his classmates that their future success is not determined by grade point average or test scores, but their lives will be measured by their “integrity, motivation and character.”
McIntosh posed the question to his fellow seniors: “But have we really lived in the moment, or have we been too busy looking forward to the next big thing and missed what is right in front of us? By constantly anticipating the future, we are overlooking the present,” he said.
He then encouraged the Class of 2025 to “enjoy this season of life you are in...”.
“I hope you can reflect on this and live your lives in the present, making the most of the time you have with your family and friends,” he said. “Hold yourself to the high standards set for you by our PCHS faculty and encourage those around you to do the same. Your character will take you much farther in life than any cord or award you have received. Each of us has our own unique set of Godgiven gifts that only we can offer to the world. Make sure to use those gifts to better those around you. Be proud of who you are, how far you’ve come and the potential that lies ahead.”
Sergent also invoked the favor and blessings of God on the Class of 2025.
After recounting a number of thank yous to family, friends and faculty and staff at the high school, he thanked his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
