Waterville’s 152nd Commencement

As the song Landslide by Fleetwood Mac played over the sound system in the Waterville Junior-Senior High auditorium, the Class of 2026 left the stage and headed into the audience.

Each senior, carrying two red roses, sought the people who had helped them get to the stage that day.

Hugs and tears flowed before the seniors returned to their seats.

This new element to the WCS graduation ceremony highlighted one of the messages given during the school’s 152nd commencement.

You come from a community that cares and will always support you.

And you will always belong here.

Sitting on stage, decorated with flowers grown by the school’s FFA program, the 56 graduates and full auditorium heard the words of welcome by Superintendent Zach Abbe.

While handling his first WCS graduation as superintendent, Abbe reminded the graduates that he had been here before.

Twenty-five years ago Abbe graduated from Waterville.

“In a small community people know you,’’ he said, “and provide support that’s personal. You are ready because of the environment you were raised in. This community is your anchor.’’

Principal Andre Paradis talked about finding purpose to figure out their path.

He laid out three cardinal rules from another Andre, Andre De Shields, who played Hermes when Hadestown—the musical done by WCS this year—opened on Broadway.

“Surround yourself with ...