TURNER – Friday, June 13, was good luck for 26 Adult Education students, eight River Valley School students and one Leavitt Area High School student.

The evening graduation ceremony started with a meal prepared by SAD 52 Food Service Director Michael Hemingway, support staff and River Valley School student Krystal Dill. Following the meal, each student received a gift from the staff.

Family and friends then made their way to the school auditorium while the graduates put on their caps and gown.

The River Valley School and Adult Education staff entered the auditorium first, all wearing hats representing this year’s graduation theme of “Hats Off to Our Graduates.” The graduates entered to a musical processional by the Steve Andrews Band.

River Valley School and Adult Education Director Bette J. Swett-Thibeault opened the celebration by “seating” the graduates and taking her place behind the podium. Introductions were followed by a musical number honoring the graduates, performed by the band.

Guest speaker Sue Poulin addressed the graduates. The evening continued with staff, academic and special recognition awards. Susan Cox received a staff award from Carol Ham, and Misty McBride received a staff award from Debbie Robbins.

The teachers from each program presented academic awards to the following students: Joshua Pratt, history; Misty McBride, physical education; Mickey Gargan, fine arts; Christopher Spear, math; Monique Belanger, science; Charlene St. Amand, English; Adam Blake, world religion; Heather Gammon, English; and Kalene Gauthier, English.

Thibeault concluded the awards portion by presenting special recognition awards to the following students: Christopher Spear and Adam Blake, Director’s Awards; Joshua Mason, Darik Rolfe and Susan Cox, Personal Achievement Awards; Charlene St. Amand, Personal Development Award; and Albert Wing Jr., Tenacity Award.

Special guest, Wilma Lombardi, assistant superintendent of instruction, offered the graduates with a few words of praise, wisdom and well wishes before giving them their diplomas. After receiving diplomas and a standing ovation from the audience, Thibeault led the class of 2003 in the traditional “Turning of the Tassel.”

The graduates exited the auditorium to a musical recessional played by the band.