Calvert High School (CHS) Senior Class President Malaysia Johnson reminded her contemporaries “everything’s about to change.” The 266 CHS seniors accepted their diplomas Wednesday afternoon, June 5 at Show Place Arena in Upper Marlboro.
Calvert County’s oldest high school became the county’s oldest new high school during the 2012-2013 school year as the graduating class’ final year was spent in the newly renovated portion of the Prince Frederick facility. The scholarship money earned by CHS seniors likely exceeded the cost of constructing the original school on Dares Beach Road in the early 1960s. Acting Principal Kevin Howard announced the grants to CHS 2013 grads totaled $3.6 million.
Johnson, who is headed to Wellesley College in Massachusetts this fall, spoke about a few daunting realities awaiting the graduates—accepting “responsibility” and coping with “change.” The class president noted that while the graduating seniors didn’t know everything, “we have the curiosity, courage and determination to find it out.”
“We are finally out of here,” declared Class Valedictorian Cara Mathers, who will be attending Villanova University on a Reserve Officers Training Corps scholarship. Of herself and her classmates, Mathers declared “we are not perfect people but each of us takes a special talent with us.”
A lot of that CHS talent was on display during the ceremony. “The Star Spangled Banner” was performed by the clarinet trio of Lauren Carman, Joshua Hassinger and Kaitlyn Snell.
Jessica Huber sang “Breakaway.” Kiana Reed and Mathieu Flick performed “I Will Remember You.” The CHS Concert Choir sang “Send Me on My Way” and were joined by CHS staff in rendering the school’s “Alma Mater.” The CHS Band and Orchestra provided both the processional—the familiar “Pomp and Circumstance” while the Cavalier grads exited to “Finlandia.”
“It’s been a long road,” declared Class Salutatorian Victoria Wolf, who is bound for Juniata College this fall.
Howard, who was appointed acting principal earlier this year when longtime CHS Principal Susan Johnson was asked to serve as Calvert County Public Schools’ Acting Director of Human Resources, gave a nod to his predecessor. “Her support for you has been unwavering,” said Howard.
Contact Marty Madden at marty.madden@thebaynet.com
