The NHS Class Of 2009 Moves On

The Newtown High School Class of 2009 graduated in ceremonies Thursday evening, June 25, at the O'Neill Center at Western Connecticut State University in Danbury. -- Bee Photo, Hicks

The members of the Newtown High School class of 2009 walked into the O'Neill Center at Western Connecticut State University on Thursday, June 25, to graduate before friends, family and, now, former teachers.

Speakers for the ceremony included Superintendent of Schools Janet Robinson, Board of Education Chair Elaine McClure, class salutatorian Judith Carnali, class valedictorian Gretchen Hoffmann and Newtown High School Principal Charles Dumais.

"You have before you an open book," said Dr Robinson to the graduates. She challenged the students to make the world a better place, and acknowledged that this year's class is certainly ready to write their own story.

Salutatorian Judith Carnali told the students she was honored to be standing before them, her classmates, and Valedictorian Gretchen Hoffmann likened the students lives to a race.

As first vice president of Student Government for the graduating class, Genna Rossi spoke regarding the students' many accomplishments.

"We are the class of 2009," said Genna, "and we are one for the history books."

A complete story on the ceremonies and more photos will appear in next week's print edition of The Newtown Bee .