Why We Should Applaud Samantha Turcotte's Dad

Graduation week is an emotional time of goodbyes, reflection and celebration of the student's triumphs over the past four years. 

However, as Portsmouth Superintendent of Schools Lynn Krizic pointed out during Monday's Senior Awards Night, graduation is also a time to applaud parents for their work and support. 

While all Portsmouth High School parents should be celebrated, one parent stood out during Monday's ceremony in a humorous, yet significant way.

Samantha Turcotte, who will graduate this Friday from Portsmouth High School, began her college studies a little early on Monday. She attended her first class towards her nursing degree and, therefore, was unable to attend Senior Awards Night with her fellow Portsmouth and Little Compton students. 

In her place, being called to the podium for scholarship after scholarship, was "Samantha Turcotte's dad." 

Despite the laughs from the audience with this running joke, Samantha's dad, Bob Turcotte, proudly took his daughter's place on the podium to accept a total of seven scholarships. 

"It has been a honor to accept Samantha's scholarship awards on her behalf tonight," Bob Turcotte said. "Her hard work paid off." 

Samantha will attend Anna Maria College in Paxton, MA, this fall, majoring in nursing and playing basketball. 

Do you know a Portsmouth, Tiverton or Little Compton parent who deserves recognition for their hard work? Name them in the comment section below!