KENNEBUNK – Kennebunk High School graduated 161 seniors on Sunday afternoon as proud families, friends and KHS faculty members looked on.

“It’s exciting – I’m, going to miss Kennebunk a lot, it’s a tight knit community here,” said Wyatt Zuke, who plans to attend a 10-month program for pipe welding in Texas this summer.

Colin Yates is also looking forward to the future, and plans on relaxing for a bit and seeing his friends before making his next move.

“It’s pretty exciting, to know that we don’t have to come back here and that we accomplished it and made it the whole way,” said Yates. “I’ll miss the kids and hanging out with my friends, I probably won’t see them as much after this.”

Each graduate took his or own path throughout high school, and Kennebunk Principal Susan Cressey said she is excited to see where many of them end up. Some are going to college, some are going to work in their trade, while others plan on staying in Kennebunk. Cressey sees big potential in many of the students.

“When I look into the eyes of this class and feel their energy, and reflect on their accomplishments, I have hope for the future, I can’t wait to see the places they go,” said Cressey.

Caleb Eickmann was the valedictorian of the class of 2017, while Kyle Ryan was the salutatorian. 
Eickmann made it clear that he was going to thank one person, and that person was a faculty member that helped him tremendously I his high school tenure.

“The person I’m going to thank is Ms. Jennifer Bartlett, my guidance counselor for the last four years,” said Eickmann. “I’ve been so lucky to have her advice as I thought about my classes and my college applications and my career. The effort that she puts in to help just one student with the complicated decisions facing him or her is something remarkable.”

Eickmann also had a message for his peers, and plea for them to give thanks for the others that have helped them along the way.

“Please help me with what I cannot do here today, please thank the numerous people who have helped us over the years, help me show them the gratitude they’ve earned,” said Eickmann.

Norma Nardone was the class guest speaker for 2017, and took a moment to also mention friends and family. Her other message was to remember the town they are leaving behind, and to become a contributing member of whatever community they settle in.

“This week has been filled with a full range of emotions, the pride and love that your parents and family have for you today, watching you achieve this milestone is something that will never get old,” said Nardone.

Shortly after, the graduates met Cressey at the podium to receive their diplomas, and kick off the next chapter of their journey.

— Associate Sports Editor Alex Sponseller can be contacted at 282-1535, ext. 323, or asponsellere@journaltribune.com.