Graduates listen to speakers during the commencement.
Seniors with the Ocean City High School Class of 2024 graduated Thursday, leaving behind their mark with accomplishments during their school career while on the verge of new opportunities as they go out into the world.
Approximately 320 students graduated in the ceremony on the field at Carey Stadium.
Families sat in the bleachers. Others sat in chairs or stood along the fence line to support and celebrate the students for achieving a great milestone.
Graduation speakers talked about the achievement of all of the students for graduating from high school. They also spoke of the new and exciting paths many will likely take.
Some of the graduates wore some of their paths on their caps with chosen college names. Others had favorite slogans and sayings to mark the day.
High School Principal Dr. Wendy O’Neal said she is confident that the Class of 2024 will do many great things.
She told the graduates to follow their dreams and “never stop learning or growing.”
“As we leave Ocean City High School to go to college or to the military, know that you have the power to shape your path,” O’Neal said. “The world is waiting for your contributions. I have no doubt that this class of 2024 will mark success along the way.”
Interim Superintendent of Schools Terry Crowley Sr. told the students to always be on task, to work hard and to always say thank you to those who have helped and supported them along their journey.
He asked that the graduates stand up and thank their teachers and give them a wave to show appreciation for all that they did to help impact their lives over four years.
Graduate James Swan reminded students in his welcome remarks that they should be proud of their accomplishments.
“At the end of our middle school career, we did not know who we would become. However, I know that through our high school career, we have grown into people that would make our middle school selves proud,” Swan told fellow graduates.
“Now is the time to make yourselves proud again,” he continued. “Think about who you want to become, and make the decisions that will take you there, no matter what your path is.”
The ceremony also included the senior song “Journey On” by Derrick Fox. Graduates from the American Sign Language program headed by teacher Amy Andersen signed for the crowd.
Students performed “Pomp and Circumstance” with band director Craig Martin. Choir
director Dr. Brian Schkeeper led the chorus.
Jackson Barnes gave students some thoughts for reflection in his farewell address, reminding some of them of all that they have endured living on a barrier island.
“The fact that we sit about 600 feet from breaking waves is significant beyond aesthetics. Our barrier island lifestyle has equipped us to brave the unpredictable. Responding to shifting tides has taught us attentiveness while flooding and hurricane destruction have equipped us with the willingness to adapt and the fortitude to rebuild,” Jackson told students.
“Establishing permanence on an ever-shifting island requires its residents to consider the uncontrollable; however, enduring this reality toughens us,” he explained. “Now, on the verge of leaving, we should take stock of our islander status, exploring the origin of our keen senses of preparedness, adaptability, and reflection. Not only can we attribute these traits to this island, but to this very school as well."
