Senior Stories
Decorative Rule 2
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Decorative Rule 2
Decorative Rule 2
Decorative Rule 2
Decorative Rule 2
Decorative Rule 2
Dear Class of 2025,
There are 31 graduation ceremonies set to take place this May and June. For you, the graduating Class of 2025, this is the time to celebrate and honor your accomplishments.
Throughout this school year, you have looked ahead to this milestone, working alongside your teachers, counselors and families to decide what comes after graduation. The phrase “it takes a village” rings true, as there have been many helping and caring hands to support you every step of the way. Your education journey began the moment you entered this world, and you will continue to learn after turning your tassels today.
As you reflect on the journey that brought you here, it’s clear that this moment is the result of both guidance and personal determination.
In Guilford County Schools (GCS), we know how important choice is. The decisions made by your families, teachers and mentors have helped guide you to this moment—but it’s your own choices that have truly defined your educational path. Whether four years ago, you chose to join JROTC, try out for the new flag football team or immerse yourself in the arts, each step was a reflection of your interests, courage and determination. These choices have shaped not only your high school experience, but the course of your future. In Guilford County Schools (GCS), we know how important choice is. The decisions made by your families, teachers and mentors have helped guide you to this moment—but it’s your own choices that have truly defined your educational path.
I know that the possibilities are endless for you, the Class of 2025. With the choices you have made, doors of opportunity will continue to open as you step into this next chapter. Whether you pursue higher education, serve in the military or dive straight into the workforce, each path holds its own promise. Still, there may be moments when you find yourself feeling uncertain, overwhelmed or unsure of what to do next—and that’s okay.
In those moments, recall the choices you’ve made and the feeling of belonging that surrounded you in GCS. Reflect on the teachers who pushed you to shoot for the stars and believed in you when you didn’t believe in yourself. Remember the coaches who implemented routine and structure and showed you what is possible with hard work. Reminisce about the bus rides to and from school, with the drivers who gave you a smile first thing in the morning.
Throughout your academic journey, you have also found solace in the friendships you’ve built with fellow students. While your choices may not be the same after graduation, those bonds are sure to remain and serve as a continued source of support in the years ahead.
I am immensely proud to be your superintendent. Witnessing your achievements and the joy on your faces today fills me with confidence that the future of the world is in good hands. You may travel the globe but know that you will always belong in GCS.
Your journey as a learner does not end here, with graduation —it’s only the beginning. Instead, I challenge you to continue growing, questioning and keep becoming the best version of yourself. To the Class of 2025, you are living proof that we are Better Together.
In partnership,
Whitney Oakley, Ed.D.
Superintendent, Guilford County Schools