Some 528 high school seniors are graduating from local schools: 295 from North Kitsap High School, 225 from Kingston High School, eight from West Sound Academy. Thirteen students went through Running Start and receive their high school diplomas and their associate’s degrees from Olympic College.

West Sound Academy’s graduation was June 8 at Kiana Lodge. North Kitsap High School’s graduation is today, 7 p.m., at North Kitsap Stadium. Kingston High School’s graduation is Saturday, 2 p.m., at North Kitsap Stadium. Olympic College’s graduation was June 10. The graduation ceremonies are open to the public. Graduates are the subject of a special section in this week’s Herald.

To the Class of 2012, we offer this message: Congratulations on reaching this milestone in your life. As you stand on the threshold of adulthood, we are confident you have what it takes to thrive in this brave new world.

You have the confidence that comes from pushing yourself. You raised market animals for 4-H, performed on the community theater stage, competed in sports, participated in community projects here and abroad.

You know about teamwork and fair play, in the classroom and on the sports field. When competition was tough, you did your best and were a good sport. You offered a hand to an injured opponent. You enjoyed the competition even if a title was out of reach, knowing that friendships, good health and self-discipline that come from sport have more value than a trophy.

You are resilient. All your life here, you’ve seen how your community won’t say “no” when the chips are down. When neighbors needed help, we saw you join others in coming to aid.

And now, here you are, ready to don cap and gown and get that well-deserved diploma. Sure, the world poses different challenges for you than it did for us on our graduation day. But you are ready. And your community has confidence in you.

The Herald has enjoyed covering you from the first day of kindergarten to graduation day. Visit us at NorthKitsapHerald.com. And keep in touch; we eagerly await news of the heights you will scale, the goals you will achieve, the changes you will bring to the communities you will touch.