The evening of June 8 can be best described as hot, humid, hazy… and happy down in Springwood where 94 degrees at 7:30 p.m.  made for a toasty evening!  James River High School  graduated 120 students including Amanda Petty who survived life threatening injuries almost two years ago.( More coming on Amanda.)

Speeches were made by Senior Class president Shannon Kessler who read from the “Places You’ll Go,”  by Dr. Seuss. A litney of things memorable of the Class 2011  were described by SCA president Kendyl Kelly. “The Sunscreen Song” full of advice for life by Salutatorian Elizabeth Amos.  The continuing story the graduating students will write in their books of life was the theme of Valedictorian Jenna Reed’s address. Principal Jamie Talbott compared the future to some dancing performed by the faculty on Fun Day. He also commended Petty for her determination and mettle to get back to school and  graduate only one year later than planned. She received a standing ovation.

59 students are headed to 4 year colleges, 39 to 2 year colleges, 26 to the work force and 2 to the military, announced Talbott. 6 students all female, had a 4.0 or better average.

Music from the concert band and Knight Choir preceded the awarding of diplomas.

As he awarded diplomas Talbott shook hands with each graduate assisted by School Board chairman Jack Leffel,  BTEC principal Joe Hardin and Assistant Principal Mike Ketron. Talbott hugged Petty and in turn his son Jordan gave his dear ol’ dad  a hug on the stage. After pronouncing the Class of 2011 officially graduated. The new alumni tossed caps in the air and sprayed the sky and each other with silly string.