“Always we’ll remember, though the years pass by, Alma Mater glorious, forever Randolph High.” These words echoed over Bauer Field as Randolph High School’s Symphonic Band and Choir delivered moving musical renditions to begin this evening’s celebration of the Class of 2022. Today, we celebrated the end of an amazing chapter of our graduates’ long journey in Randolph Township Schools. However, we also honored and recognized new beginnings as each graduate now embarks on and forges their own unique path.
Speaking directly to the Class of 2022, Randolph High School Principal Jessica Caruso Baxter acknowledged this journey saying: “Tonight is a celebration. It is a very happy occasion yet a bit bittersweet. I stand here on behalf of so many who have helped you along the way, both current employees and those who have retired. You have worked hard and now you are coming to the end of your time in Randolph Township Schools. I hope you leave here with good memories of engaging classes, exciting events and close friendships. Whatever your plans are for what comes next, I hope you find you have been well prepared based on the skills you have learned and experiences you have had here.” Mrs. Caruso Baxter also expressed her hopes for the Class of 2022 which she called “a special group.” She asked that each graduate surround themselves with people that make them feel good, make efforts to be a positive influence in the lives of others, and also seek health, happiness and joy.
Superintendent Jennifer Fano agreed with Mrs. Caruso Baxter’s sentiments also reiterating that the Class of 2022 has been an exceptional group of bright, well-rounded individuals. “Over the past few weeks, I have had the opportunity to attend special events recognizing and honoring various members of the Class of 2022. I have not only encountered high achieving young adults with the skill and ability to change the world, but I have also witnessed the comradery this class has had for one another,” Ms. Fano said. “It has been such a joy to watch these young adults be so supportive, engaged, and enthusiastic about the success of their peers. Our graduates’ accolades, while extensive, could never parallel the compassion they have demonstrated and learned from one another. I am very proud of everything that each individual member of this class has achieved, and I am inspired by your actions. I say to all of our graduates sitting before us today not only congratulations, but also thank you. Your hearts will move as many mountains as your minds, and we are so privileged to have had the opportunity to educate you.”
Each year, the graduates have the opportunity to select a teacher to represent their class. Randolph High School Math teacher Glenn Douglas, as the Class of 2022’s chosen speaker, offered his own words of reflection for our graduates taking this next step in their lives by focusing on the power of intentional listening. “When you learn to listen and you learn to reflect, the only thing left is to move forward. So like the world, we will constantly be moving or changing, but somehow still be the same, unless you are daring enough to dream that new vision or movement,” Mr. Douglas said. “Be the change and be the momentum as one who truly changes the world. Remember: Learn to Listen, Learn to Reflect and then Dare to Dream. The World is Yours.”
Additional reflections were offered by Student Council President Emma Halper, Valedictorian Audrey McConnell, Co-Salutatorians Anuja Magdum and Kieran Lucus, and Senior Class President Kaley O’Meara.
Randolph Township Schools’ mission is to inspire and empower all students to reach their full potential as unique, responsible and educated members of a global society. We are grateful to all of our educators and staff who have been a part of fulfilling this mission for every graduate over the past 13 years.
Congratulations Class of 2022. You did it! We will miss you, but you will always be a part of our Randolph Family!