Winthrop High Graduation Goes Off Smoothly

By Kate Anslinger

Being the first to host their graduation in the new high school/middle school gym was one of the many things that the class of 2017 had to brag about and they were quite deserving of the sophisticated event. Not only did the 108 graduates have to change school buildings three times in four years of their education, but also they did so with remarkable patience and few complaints.

Standing on stage in front of a sea of blue in the state of the art, newly designed gymnasium, Principal Matt Crombie shared a thank you note to the class who has remained resilient and motivated during their four years of high school.

“I decided to write one heartfelt thank you note to the entire class. ‘Thank you for your dedication and involvement in community service, thanks in advance for all the amazing things you will accomplish, thank you for being leaders in the work place, pushing political boundaries and helping others.”

The evening was highlighted with emotional and comedic moments as students were recognized for their academic achievements and their many extracurricular successes and talents.  In one last performance, drama club members, Elizabeth Carsley and Emily Nichols took the stage and sang, “For Good,” from the musical “Wicked.”

Superintendent John Macero, who will be leaving the district to take on the position of superintendent of the Stoneham school district, was awarded a plaque and a ceremonial key to the high school.

“There are many amazing people I have worked with these past years,” said Macero. “It’s tough to say goodbye.”

Along with a heartfelt speech, Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo presented Macero with citations on behalf of the Massachusetts House and Senate.

“You are a notable class,” said DeLeo, as he addressed the graduates and shared his advice on the benefits of good old-fashioned hard work. “When I’m faced with tough times, I go back to basics. It’s so simple…it’s about hard work, it’s about tenacity, and it’s about getting things done.”

The class of 2017 was well deserving of the sophisticated graduation ceremony that would mark another first in the new building.

See more photos and stories on pages 4 through 8.