Parents, siblings, extended family, friends and peers gathered at the Elwood-John H. Glenn High School football field on June 24 to honor the Class of 2011 at the District’s 49th Commencement Exercise. Graduates proudly processed in to “Pomp and Circumstance” performed by the high school band. Due to impending rain, the ceremony was shortened; however the evening still served as a special way to conclude a remarkable four years at John Glenn for the Class of 2011.
 
To begin the ceremony, Superintendent of Schools Peter Scordo welcomed all in attendance and offered his congratulations to the graduates, followed by special words of encouragement by Board of Education President Michael Kaszubski. Then, members of the graduating class were called to the podium. One by one, graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas, officially becoming alumni of Elwood-John H. Glenn High School. Honorary diplomas were also given to retiring Board members Mr. Kaszubski and Patricia Matos for their service to the Elwood community, as well as retiring James H. Boyd Intermediate School Principal Sharon McCabe.
 
Following the presentation of the diplomas, the two co-valedictorians of the Class of 2011 addressed the audience. In her speech, Melissa Groark said, “To the graduates of the Class of 2011, I know we will all move on to do great things…We should not be afraid of change or worry about the future, for it is us who will help shape it.” Michael Gross then offered his capstone speech to his fellow graduates and stated, “Here, students do not just attend high school, they are a part of it….Something that has always struck me as special is the unity of our class. I’ve been moved by the sense of community this class possesses.”
 
To conclude the ceremony, graduates celebrated by throwing their caps in the air. For many, the festivities continued into the evening at gatherings with family and friends.

Click Here for the 2011 JGHS Graduation Slideshow