Norwood's Class of 2012 First to Graduate New Building

On a windy, rainy Sunday morning, the new building saw its first graduating senior class.

The 229 graduates walked across the outdoor stage on the school's football field to receive their diplomas amid the applause and cheers of classmates and family.

Class of 2012 valedictorian Katherine Tatar reminded her classmates to remember the important things from their years at NHS.

"Ten years from now none of you will remember this speech," she said. "...and that's the way it should be."

Tatar noted the new beginnings for many of the graduates, but also the value of coming from the town of Norwood.

"As much as many of us want to run away, and never become townies, Norwood is a special place," she said.

Among the graduates Sunday was Matt Brown, who was also presented with a Gold Diploma - given to three students who were committed to excelling despite facing serious difficulties. Brown was injured while on the ice at a Norwood hockey game his sophomore year, but in the following two years has not faltered from his "never quit" philosophy, and will be attending Stonehill College in the fall.

Tatar complimented the class on making it through, and having the courage to stand up and speak their minds when necessary.

"School may have seemed pointless at times..." Tatar said to her fellow graduates. "But we made it."

If you would like to honor a particular graduate, or tell us more about your post-high school plans, email Kelly.Glista@Patch.com!