Buc graduates set sail toward life’s journey

The Kingston High School class of 2023 received their diplomas at graduation June 10 at North Kitsap School District Stadium in Poulsbo, celebrating years of hard work and achievement while looking ahead to their futures.

In total, 119 graduates walked the stage to get their diplomas. While rain threatened to dampen the mood of the special day, it tapered off as the ceremony began.

First to speak was KHS principal Miranda Smallwood, who offered some kind words for the graduates while also offering life tips moving forward.

“When I look upon you today celebrating your accomplishments, your commencement, I am in awe of the journey you have each been on and the futures you will create and experience for yourselves,” she said. “Remember to move forward with curiosity, an open mind, kindness and care for all of those around you. You are each unique and bring something special to this world in a way that only you can.

“We implore you, move forward and make this world a better place,” Smallwood continued. “Identify your core values and use those beliefs to guide you in making the hard choices. And you will be making hard choices—a lot of them. You already have. Between now and age 60, you’ll likely spend the most time with your coworkers. Choose your work wisely and whom you choose to work with. Know your values, seek diversity, be that diversity,” she concluded.

Valedictorians were next to speak, starting with Victor Taylor. “It excites me to think about all the possible outcomes we may each face in the following years,” he said. “I’d like to give thanks to those who helped me get to where I’m standing today. I’d like to thank the band program for providing me some of the most memorable moments in my life. I’d like to thank my teachers for working tirelessly to teach us confused students the truth of our world.”

Valedictorian McLean Bowers challenged his fellow graduates to stay curious and seek diversity. Ironically, a car alarm went off as he was about to speak, but he got through it. “To my fellow graduates, I encourage us to increase our understanding and consciousness of the world,” he said. “We are smart, we are capable, and we are powerful. Let us never underestimate the strength of tolerance, for it holds the potential to transform our world into a place where diverse voices are not only heard but celebrated. Let us thrive as ambassadors of truth, advocates of empathy and defenders of free expression.”