There were also many laughs and a few tears as the graduating class of 51 seniors received their diplomas and prepares to embark on the next step of their lives.

The seniors were welcomed into the auditorium with the playing of “Pomp and Circumstance,” and greeted by friends and loved ones snapping photos and taking videos. After taking their seats, Superintendent Dan O’Connor welcomed everyone to the celebration of graduation and addressed the graduating class.

Valedictorian Quinten Goldberg addressed his fellow classmates with a speech that he hoped would motivate them to face life’s challenges head on, while using his wit and humor to draw laughs from the crowd.

Goldberg said COVID-19 presented many challenges for the entire class, which included having to be schooled at home and wearing facemasks when school reopened. He said not being able to spend time with friends was difficult, but through it all, together, they overcame the challenges.

News Photo by Steve Schulwitz Alcona High School graduates enter the auditorium for their graduation ceremony under the watchful eye of Michigan State Police Trooper Kevin Pagels. The graduates were celebrated with a full house of family and friends who showed up to celebrate their achievement.

Goldberg said the last year was especially tough on him and he faced large changes in his life that he worked through while in his last year in high school.

He said he became a father to his son, Charles, and worked a job, all while trying to finish his senior year, but he continued to move forward and he reminded his classmates they can do the same when life gets difficult.

“I just want to let you know, that no matter how hard, overwhelming, or difficult life can be, never give up,” Goldberg said. “Trust me. I know about the temptation to just quit and give up, but don’t. Don’t give up no matter how hard life gets. There will always be a better day in the future.”

Megan VanKoningsveld, an academic counselor at the high school, said she was extremely proud of the class for adapting to a changing school environment as the pandemic changed.

She said the class should not be judged on grade-point-averages or academic accompaniments. Instead, she said, you have to look deeper.

News Photo by Steve Schulwitz Valedictorian Quinten Goldberg addresses his classmates during the graduation ceremony at Alcona High School on Friday.

“You have developed the character traits of perseverance, endurance, and adaptability,” VanKoningsveld said. “You had to stay at home, stay six feet apart, and learn remotely when nobody knew what that looked like, including your teachers who were learning right along with you. You persevered through quarantine to stay in school, and mental health issues. You, more than any other class I have had the privilege of working with, had had your high school life changed abruptly multiple times, and you adapted successfully to it all.”

After the choir performed the song “Simple Gifts” by Leonard Stone, the graduates one by one crossed the state to receive their diploma which brought cheers, shouts, and whistles from the crowd.