While all graduations are special for North Fort Myers High Principal Kimberly Lunger, this year was even more special for two reasons.
Her son, Bryson, was among the graduation class – and the entire class part of the school’s history.
“This class was the first graduating class that has gone through all four years since North Fort Myers became a Center for the Arts,” said Lee County School Board Vice Chairman Steven J. Teuber. He helped Lee County Schools Superintendent James W. Browder officiate the commencement, along with Lunger, faculty and staff. The graduation was held Sunday, June 7 at Germain Arena.
Over 400 students were part of the Class of 2009. The class motto was “Our lives are before us…our paths are behind us…but our memories are forever with us.” The class song was Carrie Underwood’s “Whatever You Remember.”
Student speakers all imparted messages full of school spirit and thanks to faculty and family, and pride in being “Red Knights.”
Class Historian Shelby Voegeli led the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance, with Class President Amanda Rose giving the welcome and a commencement address.
Class Treasurer Megan Fenicle and Class Secretary Lauren Shamon introduced Honorary Speakers Laine Shoults and Class President Rose. “I’m actually speaking twice, said Rose. “The first part is on future success, so I decided the next should be about the past and wishing students success.”
“Even though we don’t use the terms valedictorian anymore, student Ellen McHugh was officially the number one student in the class with a 5.08 average,” said Lunger.
She also noted that she was “very, very proud” of her son Bryson. “I loved going to school with her as my principal,” he said.
Proud parents were everywhere, including Cape Coral residents Kim and Bill Davis, with daughter Cassidy. “We are so proud of her, she’s going to school on an academic scholarship,” said dad Bill.
“And she lettered in several sports,” Kim said.
Cassidy said friends are what she’ll remember most from the year. “Friends, the Senior Cruise and Grad Night,” she added. She will be studying Sports Medicine at the University of Central Florida.
The traditional Thank You to Parents was made by Heath Cutler, Class Vice President.
The Senior Class Sponsor this year was Rich Herring, Jr. and the Commencement Coordinator was Lisa Skinner.
“North Fort Myers High School is a wonderful school, long standing in the community,” said Superintendent Browder. “I know these youngsters will do well after graduation.”