Sadly, Norristown Area High School had to say goodbye to another class of  students who came, learned, and conquered. In honor of their leaving, Art students once again decorated the sidewalk leading into the school for graduation comers to enjoy as they arrived for the commencement.

Gallery • 49 Photos

This year’s graduation ceremony kicked off with both legendary and inspirational speeches from Valedictorian and Salutatorian Matthew Piccari and Corinne Leary, respectively. Notably, Leary spoke out against the unfair treatment received by a graduating student regarding the color of her gown. While the student was able to wear the gown of choice before the program began, Leary stated that the students of NAHS gained a voice in their years of being in Norristown.  She declared that the alumni and current students of Norristown  were able to use that voice in order to help the student speak out against the injustice. Leary also caused a bit of controversy when she called out government and school board officials for the way some actions have been made with disregard for the students. While Leary took her time to call out systematic flaws, Piccari’s speech definitely took a more humorous tone. Starting with a couple of jokes, he reflected on his years at Town, even stating “I took all weighted honors and got A’s in all of them, which is no easy feat.” Both received a applause from the crowd and seniors were ready to receive their diplomas. However, it was time for the key to be passed down- the key of Knowledge that is. Vice-President of the Class of 2017, Elena Tzivekis, passed down the key to co-President of the Class of 2018, Kelly Rice.
As the graduates prepared to walk across stage, the graduating class was addressed by Principal Smith and Dr. Samuels.  Finally, the President of the NASD School Board, Turea Hudson.  Hudson’s words seemed to resonate with many in the audience as she advocated that students choose their own labels in life, rather than having others assign them.
Around 2:00 PM, Seniors took their long awaited walk of pride into adulthood. Norristown Area High School’s One Hundred Fifty-Fifth class is officially graduated, and on the road to success.  Those of us who remain hope they will all  continue to wear the Eagle name proudly as they stride forward into society to leave their imprints, just as they have left one at NAHS.