Hiwassee Dam – The last day of school for Cherokee County ended differently for about three dozen graduating seniors at Hiwassee Dam High School on Saturday.
Not just the start of summer vacation, on Saturday morning – the final ceremony among Cherokee County’s high schools and early college – åç Dam High graduates embarked on a new chapter in their lives’ journeys.
Principal Daniel McNabb said the school’s Class of 2025 includes six who graduated with associate’s degrees, three as certified nursing assistants and one whgo is planning to become a U.S. Marine Corps reservist.
He said 69% of the class plan to go on to college for higher degrees and certifications, while classmates amassed $91,422 in scholarships. Career choices include education, auto mechanics, small engine repair, welding, health care, biology, social work and zoology.
He quoted a passage from children’s author Dr. Seuss’ poem, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” – å “You’re off to great places Today is your day
Your mountain is waiting Go, get on your way!”
Part of the ceremony included graduating seniors taking flower bouquets from a table and delivering them to important loved ones in the audience, which was standing-room-only in the school’s gymnasium.
A slide show included childhood pictures of graduating seniors.
Graduating senior Olivia McNabb praised the Hiwassee Dam staff and faculty for their passion for teaching and love for students.
Graduating senior Jeanavis Perry recalled the raucous bunch her classmates were when they arrived at Hiwassee Dam High, who became “less silly” with improved manners as they grew. Her classmates have the “utmost respect for one another” and set the example for lower classes, and her time at HD helped her overcome fears.
“If you set your mind on what you want to do, you will achieve it,” Perry said. “To the future, ready or not, here we come.”