PHOTO: U.S. Sen. Angus King, I-Maine, addresses MSAD 52 graduates by video at their June 13 commencement. (Submitted photo)
TURNER — Cheers, horns and smiles greeted 21 graduates of MSAD 52 Adult Education with a drive-in commencement graduation on Saturday, June 13.
Director Razell Ward and staff decided to do a drive-in commencement graduation, building on Leavitt Area High School’s shared idea to hold commencement in a way that honored students during this time of social distancing.
“Nothing could stop us from honoring our graduates, and it was worth every moment getting to see their faces again. It just proves that our students are unstoppable – rain, shine or even covid-19 – they are unstoppable,” Ward said.
Larry Sirois, staff member, said, “It was great to finally see the students and their families be able to celebrate in person during these unprecedented times. It will be a moment of historical value.”
Ben Tucker, regional representative for U.S. Senator Angus King, presented a digital commencement address from King. who told graduates that this is, “A tough graduation because we have not been able to be together. A graduation that we will always remember. What you have done is a real expression of initiative and determination and [you] made a conscious decision to further your education and go on a new path of your life. At whatever age, you are all people that did the most important thing and decided to move forward.”
Ward said that this year’s graduating class was also affected by the recent loss of Julie Beaucage, a graduating member and friend to the 2020 class. “This has really been a tough year for us, with the loss of Julie so close to graduation, and we are very proud that our students and staff persevered during this extremely difficult time.”
Crystal Beaucage, Julie’s twin sister, accepted Julie’s diploma in her honor, and a moment of silence was observed.
The Central Maine Community Courage to Grow Award was presented to Morgan Webber. This award is the highest recognition bestowed upon an MSAD 52 Adult Education student, receiving a scholarship from CMCC for a free college course. HiSET honors were awarded to Brooklyn Hutchins for earning college ready scores on every exam.
Class speakers Colby Brooks spoke about rising to the challenges they have faced this year, and Chris Storer offered advice on being kind, humble and respectful, no matter what life throws at you. Storer also noted that this was the first time he had met his teachers in person, as he had completed his diploma studies completely online.
MSAD 52 Adult Education will begin its online summer session for virtual HiSET and credit recovery classes in July. Register today by calling 207-225-1010 for #YOURNEXTSTEP.
