web site also has video and photo from graduation
--pws

Tassels flipped; introducing the WHS 'Class of 2008'

By Eric Tsetsi/Staff Writer

Mon Jun 09, 2008, 04:45 PM EDT

Winchester, MA -

The Field House at Winchester High School was packed with cheering onlookers Sunday for the WHS class of 2008 commencement.

For anyone who's been to a graduation, it was a traditional affair with the typical music (Pomp and Circumstance), speeches and cap throwing. But for this year's graduates, it signified a turning point in their lives as they move on from the familiarity of home to the excitement of college and elsewhere.

"We all wonder what's ahead," said Peter Stein, Senior Class President. "Right now we're all contemplating the abruptness of the end of high school and our interest in the new worlds we are about to enter. This change may be frightening at first, and I know it will be for me. But in other ways I see it as just the next step … Winchester High School has prepared us well."

About 280 students graduated this year. The majority — more than 90 percent — will be entering college, according to the guidance office's unofficial statistics.

Several students are going to Boston College; others will be attending Yale University, Tulane University, Princeton and Cornell, according to Red and Black, the high school newspaper.

"We have learned to overcome obstacles and face difficult challenges to get to this point today," said Stein, who congratulated his fellow graduates on their achievements and their futures. "All of our experiences both big and small have stimulated our growth. As we grow, however, we also change."

According to Stein, the class of 2008 stood out for several reasons, including for its commitment to helping disadvantaged people across the country, from New Orleans to Boston.

"We've traveled far and wide in order to help others," he said.

Several students spent their vacations volunteering to help rebuild New Orleans and the gulf coast, according to Stein.

The senior class gift was a reflection of their commitment to helping others. They made a donation to every school library in the school district to help in the purchase of new books.

Although the hot and humid weather that dominated the weekend created a stuffy atmosphere in the field house, the celebration went smoothly and within an hour and a half, graduates were off to their various parties and gatherings.

"I think this was a great class. They were a great group, they improved the school unity," said Principal Tom Gwin.

Math teacher Robert Trakimas, who gave the faculty address, urged students to maintain their passion for helping others as they grow older and become consumed by life's travails.

"Don't forget the internal reminders of promoting issues such as tolerance of diversity," he said.

Trakimas, a former trial attorney turned high school teacher, also urged students to follow a path that brings them happiness and enjoyment.

"I hope that all of you can follow your dreams … I hope you can find a job that you love and I hope that you find many other interests that you can enjoy," he said.

Eric Tsetsi can be reached at 781-674-7731 or etsetsi@cnc.com.