- December 23, 2024
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The class that heard “no” constantly during the pandemic is now the class of “yes.”
That was the message of senior Madelin Sims in her commencement address at the Flagler Palm Coast High School Class of 2023 graduation on May 30, at the Ocean Center, in Daytona Beach.
Sims’ speech followed a memorable performance of the national anthem by Alyssa Pimentel, a welcome by Class President Mikiya Fitzgerald and a performance of “Never Walk Alone,” by Charlotte Fletcher, Tyler Giblin, Grace Ivey and Jack Steinwehr.
Principal Bobby Bossardet then began his speech with a long pause, as the class began to cheer more and more loudly. Sporting custom Vans shoes with the Flagler Schools logo, Bossardet announced that this was a class of scholars, with 205 students earning a 3.7 or higher GPA.
Four students earned National Merit recognition, with 49 International Baccalaureate grads, 40 associate degrees and $1 million in scholarships. Twelve have enlisted in the Armed Forces.
“Your tenacity is what defines FPC,” Bossardet said. “The Class of 2023 is well prepared for whatever the future may bring."
He challenged the graduates to ponder what their future legacy will be, now that they are moving beyond high school.
“Go, take risks, don’t stay in your comfort zone,” he said. “You will continue to rise to greatness.”