POULSBO — It’s memorable to be the first.

And for Kingston High School’s seniors being the first was also historical, as the class of 2008 is the school’s first ever to graduate.

They were also the first to pass the WASL as a graduation requirement, complete a culminating senior project and test out the waters of a two high school split.

On Saturday afternoon at the North Kitsap Stadium the experiences of new clashed and combined with the traditions of old — inspiration, forging new paths, making a difference and pursuing passions — as about 190 senior Buccaneers crossed the stage to receive their coveted ticket to adulthood: A high school diploma.

“They’ve boldly gone where no Buccaneer has gone before and yet another first is the first step into adulthood,” said KHS Principal Christy Cole to kick off the graduation celebrations. “Be the first. Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail. Pursue your passions and leave your mark on the world. Congratulations. I am so proud of you.”

Cole’s words resonated loudly as the entire stadium burst with applause and cheers.

On Saturday the sun shone, literally, on the new grads, and the mood was electric with anticipation and celebration, as the all-familiar wave rippled through the grads’ seats.

There was no shortage of smiles, applause or cheers, as the students, adorned in long maroon robes with gold trimmings, sat in wait to receive their diplomas.

Valedictorian, Chris Hall and Salutatorian Kendal Peiguss, in true Buc style, delivered a humorous yet serious speech — much like life itself.

After questioning the creditability of the WASL, suggesting playing the Buc football team as a good confidence boost and discussing the transition from high school to living in the parents’ basement, the duo got down to real-life advice.

“As soon as we leave this stadium you have the entire world at your disposal,” Peiguss said. “The most important thing: do what you love. Find a way to make your dreams happen.”

Although leaving behind the high school years can be sad and filled with questioning, as old friends and familiarity scatter across the country, for most graduation is a day that’s been a long time coming.

“It means a lot,” said Devin Langaker who’ll attend Western Washington University this fall. “It’s really significant that I can finally move on after being in school for so long.”