As a member of the Newton School Committee and a proud father, it is an honor and privilege to speak before the Newton South High School Class of 2009 and your assembled family and teachers. This class has shined in so many ways: in academics, athletics, art, music, theater, community and international service, competitive teams from speech to robotics, friendship, and tolerance. You are also great representatives of the growing ethnic and cultural diversity of Newton and our nation.
 
Newton South is a remarkable school that continues to get better at meeting the needs of all kinds of learners. Your four years were likely fairly intense and while some of you found your passion others have still yet to discover it. That’s OK – there are many paths and timelines.

A few of you are like I was in high school and have a career path in mind that was inspired by a class project or activity. For me it was a project in Dr. G’s 9th grade biology class on protecting the environment which has led me to spend the past 29 years focused on doing that.  Most of you are going to take some time to explore options, get to know yourself better, and find your passion.  I urge you to try new things and learn from your mistakes.

Your experiences here at Newton South have set a strong foundation for your future. The world is changing rapidly and you will need to continue to build your 21st century skills of critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication to better address our local and global challenges.

Wherever you are in your journey, I hope that in addition to the knowledge and activities you have pursued, that you have developed insight, empathy for others, and learned how to form strong connections to people who can help you through tough times and validate your uniqueness.

I would like to thank the wonderful teachers and staff of this school for their outstanding efforts inside and outside the classroom, and for inspiring and challenging the students.  Thanks also to the many parents who have made small and major contributions to this school. And a big thank you to both Brian Salzer for his dedication to this school over these past three years and to Jeff Young for 11 years of solid school system leadership and support for Newton South’s transformations. 

On behalf of the School Committee, I wish the Class of 2009 all the best as you take the next exciting steps forward in your lives and we look forward to your accomplishments ahead. 

And finally to my son Nate -- Mom and I are very proud of you.

Congratulations Class of 2009 and have a great summer!