WESTMINSTER — Every graduate has the opportunity to speak at Compass School's graduation ceremonies.
Senior Mariah Smith, who came to the school this year, described her experience:
“Compass has been a huge help with pushing me to my limits and helping me find my voice. I have gained hope and I have never been happier. I enjoy coming to school because I know I have something to look forward to. I will be sad to leave, but I know when I go, I will be more of an adult than I have ever been.”
The love and admiration for each senior was reflected by the 140 teachers, family members, friends, and classmates who all had a part in celebrating the graduates. Equally evident was the graduates' pride in their readiness for the world beyond high school.
Dr. Rick Gordon, director of Compass School, praised the “yes you can” philosophy that guides education at the school.
The 11th-grade Global Connections trip, Gordon said, is emblematic of allowing students to realize, “Yes, you can travel to distant lands, you can communicate in Spanish in your family stay, you can jump off that cliff, you can wash your clothes in the sink, you can overcome discomfort and even thrive in uncomfortable situations.”
The whole Compass program, from class experiences to Project Week to Community Service Winter Term, Gordon said, empowers students to believe in themselves.
The words of the graduates reflected the confidence gained during their high school years.
“I realized I didn't need others' approval of myself as a person,” said Kestrel Osman. “I just needed to be comfortable in my own skin.”
Nina Singleton Spencer added, “I have gained a strong sense of self and an obstinate notion that I can achieve anything I want to do next.”
Tim Salamin, who transferred to Compass from Keene High, said, “I've given myself the gift of me really believing in me.”
Senior Class Advisor Julia Taylor spoke of what others can learn from these students' fierce sense of independence:
“Choose your own adventure. Don't always take others' suggestions. Make your own mistakes. Move on. Make another one. And remember to ask yourself: What is right, what is wise, and what might be wondrous. Put passion into practice: what do you love to do? Create a project for yourself. Share it with others. The inspiration will spread.”
Graduate Lila Shaw wanted to especially thank the teachers, “for making me feel loved, appreciated, and seen for who I am.”
The ceremony concluded with the awarding of artistic handmade diplomas, created by Compass students, that represent the distinctive qualities of each recipient.