Distinguished Scholars and Bilingual Graduates Lead PHS Class of 2024
Graduation Ceremony Highlights
Under the serene skies of Lenox, 184 seniors from Pittsfield High School concluded their high school journey at Tanglewood. This year’s graduation ceremony not only marked a return to the Lenox institute after five years but also showcased the rich tapestry of talents and achievements within the Class of 2024. The vibrant event, held under an arch of purple and white balloons, embraced a blend of tradition and innovation.
A Celebration of Academic and Artistic Talent
The ceremony kicked off with stellar performances by the school’s band, chorus, and orchestra, infusing the air with melodies that reflected both heritage and hope. Dea Courtney Wood-Crooks captivated the audience with a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem, while Hailey Rumlow’s recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance stirred a sense of unity and pride. Emcee Kayla Chard smoothly guided the audience through the event, ensuring each moment was savored to its fullest.
Great performances were seen
Principal’s Timeless Wisdom
Principal Maggie Harrington-Esko’s address was a highlight, reminding the graduates that no matter where life leads them, they will always have a home “under the dome” at PHS. Her words encapsulated the essence of the Portrait of a Graduate initiative, which emphasizes key attributes such as responsibility, communication, global awareness, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. This initiative not only seeks to arm students with academic knowledge but also aims to foster holistic growth..
Reflections and Tributes
Student speakers Brooke Tripicco and Frankielys Payano De La Cruz captivated the audience with their reflections. They spoke eloquently about their personal journeys and the sense of community and inclusivity they found at PHS. Tripicco shared her initial apprehensions about attending PHS, only to find it to be the perfect place to discover her potential and build lasting relationships. De La Cruz, who transitioned from the Dominican Republic at a young age, poignantly delivered her speech in both English and Spanish, honoring her heritage and the diverse community at PHS.
Abigail Malumphy’s address brought attention to the global importance of education. She emphasized the power of learning as a tool for personal and societal betterment and advocated for equal access to education for all, particularly girls in underserved regions. Her words were a clarion call to leverage their education to effect meaningful change.
Honoring Gabrielle Corbett
A touching tribute was paid to Gabrielle Corbett, who passed away in 2016 and would have been part of the Class of 2024. Graduate Jada Siv fondly remembered Corbett’s compassionate spirit and her lasting impact on the community. The tribute emphasized the enduring bonds that tie the graduates together and the indelible impact of those we’ve lost too soon.
Closing Thoughts
The ceremony at Tanglewood was more than just a graduation; it was a celebration of resilience, achievement, and community. The Class of 2024 leaves PHS with not only diplomas but also a rich tapestry of memories, lessons learned, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact in the world. The vibrant performances and heartfelt speeches underscored the diverse talents and unique journeys of each graduate, painting a collective portrait of excellence and promise.
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Academic Excellence and Linguistic Diversity
Celebrating Distinguished Scholars
The Pittsfield High School (PHS) Class of 2024 stood out for its remarkable academic achievements. Over 50 students graduated with high honors, showcasing their exceptional dedication and hard work. Additionally, nearly 30 students earned honors, highlighting the strong academic foundation instilled by PHS. Such accomplishments reflect the school’s commitment to fostering academic rigor and nurturing a culture of excellence.
Advanced Placement Successes
This year, numerous graduates were recipients of Advanced Placement (AP) capstone degrees and certificates. These awards are a testament to the students’ ability to tackle college-level curricula and excel in rigorous subjects. The achievement underscores the school’s emphasis on providing students with opportunities to challenge themselves and prepare for higher education and future careers.
Linguistic Diversity and Biliteracy
A significant highlight of the 2024 graduation was the recognition of linguistic diversity among the students. Graduates earned Seals of Biliteracy in four different languages, an impressive feat that celebrates cultural and linguistic proficiency. These seals attest to the students’ ability to communicate across languages and cultures, preparing them to become global citizens.
Languages Represented
– Spanish – French – Mandarin – German The acknowledgement of these languages at the graduation ceremony reflects the school’s inclusive environment and commitment to fostering a multicultural community.
Encouraging Lifelong Learning
Principal Maggie Harrington-Esko, in her address, emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and the values represented by the Portrait of a Graduate initiative. This initiative focuses on essential attributes such as:
- 🏫 Responsibility
- 🏫 Communication
- 🏫 Global Awareness
- 🏫 Critical Thinking
- 🏫 Lifelong Learning
By embracing these principles, students are better prepared to navigate the uncertainties of the future and make meaningful contributions to the global community.
Looking Forward
The academic achievements and linguistic diversity of the PHS Class of 2024 set a high standard for future classes. As these graduates move forward, they carry the lessons and skills acquired during their time at PHS, ready to face new challenges and seize opportunities that lie ahead. Their success serves as an inspiration for current and future students to strive for excellence and embrace the diverse world around them. Source: Pittsfield High School Graduates “`
Principal’s Address and Portrait of a Graduate
The Enduring Dome
Principal Maggie Harrington-Esko opened her address with a heartfelt reminder to the graduates of their permanent connection to Pittsfield High School. “Just remember you always have a home under the dome,” she said, a sentiment that resonated deeply with the 184 graduating seniors seated under the arch of purple and white balloons at Tanglewood. This ceremony stood out not only for being the first graduation at Tanglewood in five years but also for its celebration of academic excellence and diversity. More than 50 students graduated with high honors, and nearly 30 were recognized for honors achievements. Furthermore, numerous students earned Advanced Placement capstone degrees and certificates and received Seals of Biliteracy in four different languages.
Portrait of a Graduate Initiative
Continuing her address, Harrington-Esko introduced the Portrait of a Graduate initiative that she and other Berkshire County educators developed. Convening in 2019 and culminating in 2020, this initiative aimed to define the essential attributes of a well-rounded graduate. According to Harrington-Esko, the competencies identified are integral to navigating both current and future uncertainties. She emphasized that a graduate should be:
- 👩🎓 Responsible
- 👩🎓 A prepared individual
- 👩🎓 A communicator
- 👩🎓 A global citizen
- 👩🎓 A critical thinker
- 👩🎓 A lifelong learner
Harrington-Esko concluded that these attributes are not merely aspirational but actionable qualities that each student should strive to embody in their personal and professional lives.
Reflection and Community
Student speakers Brooke Tripicco and Frankielys Payano De La Cruz also addressed the graduates, offering personal reflections on their high school journey. Tripicco spoke about initial misgivings and eventual acceptance of PHS, crediting the school for its ability to foster individuality and provide a nurturing environment. “‘Welcome to our home under the dome’ was one of the first things said to us, setting the stone for our journey,” remarked De La Cruz, who added her own unique perspective by delivering her speech in both English and Spanish. Their speeches aligned perfectly with the Portrait of a Graduate initiative, highlighting how PHS nurtured their development into responsible individuals and effective communicators.
The Power of Education
Abigail Malumphy, another student speaker, focused on the transformative power of education and its role in global betterment. She poignantly highlighted that education is a privilege not afforded to everyone around the world, urging her peers to use their knowledge to advocate for equal access to education for all. Malumphy’s speech echoed the attributes outlined in the Portrait of a Graduate, emphasizing the need for global awareness and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Final Remarks
Principal Harrington-Esko concluded by reminding the graduates that although their high school years have come to an end, the lessons learned and the community formed at PHS will continue to guide them. “Our futures are truly as bright as the dome’s peak on a sunny day,” she said, encouraging the graduates to “use our education to light up the world.” The ceremony at Tanglewood was not just a celebration of academic milestones but also a reaffirmation of the values and attributes that Pittsfield High School instills in its students. These values are vital as the graduates move forward into the next chapter of their lives. Source: Linked Article “`
Student Speakers’ Reflections
Embracing Individuality and Inclusivity
The graduation ceremony was not just a celebration of academic achievements, but also a testament to the nurturing environment provided by Pittsfield High School (PHS). Speakers Brooke Tripicco and Frankielys Payano De La Cruz eloquently shared their personal journeys, highlighting how the school’s inclusive atmosphere allowed them to find their true selves.
Tripicco reflected on her initial doubts about joining PHS, describing the imposing building that her mother initially opposed. However, she quickly grew to appreciate the school’s unique spirit. “Nobody can be reduced to one singular label — every one of us is a delightful multiplicity, uninhibited in our explorations of self,” she noted, reflecting on the myriad opportunities that the school offered. This sentiment was echoed by De La Cruz, who spoke about her transition from the Dominican Republic and how PHS became a second home. She concluded with a heartfelt reminder to her peers: “We will keep walking forward with our heads held high and a bright smile, knowing we will always have a place in our home under the dome” (Source: PHS Graduates).
The Power of Education
Abigail Malumphy drove home the profound impact of education on both personal growth and societal change. She fervently advocated for global educational equity, urging her peers to leverage their educational privileges to effect positive change. “Think of the thousands of young girls who are continuously denied education solely due to uncontrollable factors such as turmoil within their country, religion, or societal beliefs; who are patiently waiting for the day the world believes it is fair for them to learn,” Malumphy said, passionately calling for the class to turn education into a right for all (Source: PHS Graduates).
Education will always bring results
A Collective Journey
The speakers collectively emphasized the journey they shared over the past four years, growing and learning not just academically, but also through life’s experiences. Tripicco cherished the freedom to explore various interests, from academics to arts, and the profound lessons learned in the seemingly mundane moments of school life. “Sure we weren’t all the best of friends, but we will forever be a part of each other’s stories,” she reflected, noting the significant life lessons learned beyond textbooks and lectures (Source: PHS Graduates).
As they move on to the next chapters of their lives, the reflections of these student speakers reinforce the core values of PHS’s Portrait of a Graduate initiative: responsibility, communication, global awareness, critical thinking, and lifelong learning. Their speeches were a fitting tribute to their journeys, the lasting impact of their education, and their readiness to face the future.
Source: PHS Graduates.
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Tribute to Gabrielle Corbett
The graduation ceremony at Tanglewood was marked by a poignant moment of remembrance for Gabrielle Corbett, a would-be member of the Pittsfield High School Class of 2024. Gabrielle passed away at a tender age in 2016, leaving a significant void in the hearts of her family, friends, and community.
Remembering Gabrielle’s Spirit
Graduate Jada Siv delivered a heartfelt tribute, describing Gabrielle’s contagious joy and hopeful outlook. She was described as a “ray of sunshine,” who shared her compassionate spirit generously with everyone around her. Jada noted Gabrielle’s big dreams and tremendous imagination, qualities that left a lasting impression on those who knew her.
“Gabby was truly an angel,” Jada said, “She had a pure and genuine love for the world around her, from her family and friends to her school and church. Her presence was a gift, and though she’s not here physically, I know she’s smiling down at us, celebrating and rooting for us to follow our dreams.”
Impact on the Community
Gabrielle’s sudden passing deeply affected the Egremont Elementary community. Her memory continues to inspire many at Pittsfield High School. She is remembered for her kindness and the meaningful connections she made across various facets of her life.
The ceremony highlighted how Gabrielle’s spirit continues to live on through acts of compassion and inclusivity embraced by the graduating class. Principal Maggie Harrington-Esko reflected on how the values Gabrielle embodied align closely with the Portrait of a Graduate initiative, which emphasizes responsibility, communication, and global awareness.
Continuing Gabrielle’s Legacy
As the graduates move forward, they carry with them not only their academic knowledge but also the heartfelt lessons imparted by Gabrielle’s life. This tribute served as a reminder of the importance of cherishing each moment and extending kindness to others.
Gabrielle’s legacy of compassion resonates strongly with the class of 2024, encouraging them to cultivate an environment of support and love wherever they.
