BUCKFIELD — The 40 Class of 2011 graduates of Buckfield Junior-Senior High School continued a tradition begun by the class of 1984 during their ceremony Saturday night.

Each young man or young woman presented a red rose to his or her parents, grandparents, girlfriend, boyfriend or someone else who was special to them, as a childhood photo of each was displayed on a screen.

While most presented roses to their parents, a few added someone different. Cameron Allen, a vocalist who sang two songs during the ceremony, presented roses to his parents as well as to the school’s music teacher, Ethan Wright.

Foreign exchange students Aisha Aitkeeva of Kyrgyzstan and Rita Castro-Dias of Portugal presented roses to their host families.

Aisha, who will return to her home country on June 22, said her year at Buckfield was a wonderful experience.

“I have had a big experience,” she said. “It’s awesome being an American student.”

Justin Brown presented roses to his sisters.

Class adviser and English teacher Deborah Litchfield, who served as emcee for the ceremony, said the tradition began in 1984, continued in 1985 and by 1986 had become something that each year’s class did.

This year, a Buckfield yearbook was presented to the mother of classmate Kyraa Locke, who died last year.

The students — girls in white robes, boys in magenta — received their diplomas from Western Foothills Regional School Unit 10 Superintendent Tom Ward, then a handshake from school board Chairman Jerry Wiley, followed by a hug from Principal George Reuter.

The guest speaker was teacher Annette Caldwell.

“This class and I have been very close,” she said. “I hope you’ll hold on to some of my words.

“You taught me that each class is its own family. Never be afraid to go beyond your abilities and use your resources all along the way. You will have many mentors out there. Look to them.”

Valedictorian Samantha Jo Jones said her class was always able to make something out of nothing.

“We have earned our diplomas,” she said. “We’re a unique collection of individuals.”

The school’s gym was packed with family and friends as the class let out rousing screams of joy after all had received their diplomas.

“It’s official, folks,” Litchfield said. “They are graduated. The speeches have been spoken and it’s time to march off the stage. Always look to the future, but don’t forget the past. Live long and prosper.”

The class was driven to the Seacoast Fun Park in Windham for a night of games and togetherness.