Weston High School Graduates 'Step Into the Unknown'

Families and friends gathered under a large tent on the grounds of Weston High School Wednesday evening to celebrate four years of accomplishments by students of the Class of 2013.

Supt. of Schools Colleen Palmer noted how Weston High School is the first Connecticut high school to be nominated by the U.S. Department of Education as a Blue Ribbon School in the past eight years.

The Class of 2013's achievements outside the classroom in athletics, the arts and public service projects also earned praise during the high school's 43rd annual commencement ceremony.

Oliver Englehart Parker, co-president of the Student Council, thanked all of the parents and teachers who helped he and his classmates along the way.

The following is a collection of quotes made during the commencement: 

"Explore the world's classroom with an open mind and an open heart. Don't be afraid to fail ... Believe that you have value."

— Sarah Abigail Gruen, Class of 2013

"Sometimes to find solutions, you have to be a troublemaker. Speak out of turn. Are you going to sit back and let others make decisions? Let someone take away your rights and freedoms? You can wait until the rules are handed to you or be an author."

— Michael Lewis Mezzo, teacher

"I hope I can look back years from now and remember what it was like standing before you at this podium — about to step into the unknown."

— Elliott Andrew Eglash, Salutatorian

"We'll all embark on our diverse paths, but when all is said and done, we will all share a common thread of being Weston High School graduates of the Class of 2013."

— Asra Naeem Ali, Valedictorian

"You uplifted me. You made me laugh. And, at times, you moved me to tears ... You are loved by many. You will always be missed. And, if you need me, I'm always an email away."

— Lisa R. Wolak, Principal

"Your voices are powerful. Never let them go silent."

— Colleen Palmer, Superintendent of Schools