Good Evening Parents, Staff and the graduating class of 2000: I would first like to say that I feel honored to be asked to give this toast to the students. Be proud of where you sit this evening. It took 12 years to get to where you are tonight, and starting tomorrow a new journey will begin. The journey of a new life is exhilarating, and yet overwhelming at the same time. But you have the knowledge and experience of the last 12 years that will take you as far as you want to go. You have the dexterity that will guide you in your new voyage. The events with your friends, the support of family and community, are all things that you can rely and count on as you go into unknown territory. Graduates, look around you, and look beside you. After tonight, some will choose to stay and others will choose to pursue a life elsewhere. Regardless of where you go and what you accomplish, it will be secondary to what you have all achieved here. You have spent the last 12 years of your life growing together, sharing your dreams and being a support to one another when times were difficult. Nowhere else in your lifetime will you build the relationships that you have had while in school. The special bond that you have with one another will always keep you connected together. The friendships you have forged here have been built on time, trust and respect. Don't ever forget that. It's a successful formula for your future. The world that you're about to take on is larger than most realize. Opportunities will not walk up your front path and knock on your door. You have to find the opportunity, and when that happens, do evervthing you can with it The experience is waiting for you. Finding it is an experience in itself. On behalf of the Worsley staff I would like to say that we are all very proud of each and every one of you tonight. You have faced adversity and have reached the pinnacle of your formal education so far. When times were demanding in school, you rose to the challenge, confronted it and succeeded. From this, I know in my heart, you have the capabilities to become mature, dynamic members of society. Whatever path you choose to take, and wherever this new journey will take you, remember the feeling you all have here tonight. It's a very special one that is not experienced enough. Carry it with you and hold onto the memories you have made here. Parents, family members, fellow staftf, would you please rise and join me in a toast to the graduating class of 2000! |