News Photo by Julie Goldberg Tanya Haskin and James Walsh graduated from Pied Piper School on Friday.

ALPENA — Two more graduates joined the Pied Piper School alumni on Friday.

Tanya Haskin and James Walsh graduated from Pied Piper and are now starting the next journey of their lives.

Principal Stacy Wentz said Haskin and Walsh have both become a staple to the Pied Piper family. Haskin started at Pied Piper in 1998 in the school’s early childhood program, while Walsh joined the school in 2012.

Wentz said the the pair’s classmates were excited to watch Haskin and Walsh graduate and receive their diplomas.

“It’s really exciting to celebrate with them today,” Wentz said. “We’ll miss seeing them every day, but we know that we’ll still be in touch and be informed with how they’re doing.”

Both graduates have work plans already lined up. Haskin will work at Thunder Bay Winery, while Walsh will be work at Culver’s.

Teacher Janis Sahr said Haskin and Walsh are two determined individuals who have been faced with difficult challenges in their lives. With a support system, Haskin and Walsh have acquired skills that will help them become successful and happy individuals within the community, Sahr said.

Scott Reynolds, superintendent of the Alpena-Montmorency-Alcona Educational Service District, told those in attendance that everyone will miss Haskin’s love of hugs and Walsh’s leadership and compassion.

“We’re very proud of them both,” Reynolds said. “As member of the Pied Piper family, once a member, always a member, and that doesn’t end when you graduate today.”

Mary Zann, director of special education for Alpnea-Montmorency-Alcona Educational Service District, told the graduates three things: It was the school’s pleasure to teach them, that they’ll be missed at the school, and that they will always be part of the Pied Piper family.

“Congratulations on your graduation,” Zann said. “Hold your head high, and be proud of the hard work that you’ve accomplished here.”

Julie Goldberg can be reached at 989-358-5688 or jgoldberg@thealpenanews.com. Follow her on Twitter @jkgoldberg12.