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Nathan McLean had three cans of Silly String in his pockets and two in his waistband to spray at friends during Live Oak High School graduation ceremonies Thursday night.
McLean was one of 106 seniors in shiny purple caps and gowns preparing to graduate.
He smiled, but said he was sad that his friendships might only survive through e-mails.
“It’s kinda bittersweet,” McLean said. “You’re excited to be graduating, but you’re leaving all these people you’ve spent your life with — some of us since kindergarten.”
Along with the Silly String, which many of the seniors carried, they planned to give school district officials marbles as they shook hands and received their diplomas.
Laura Anderson said she felt honored to be this year’s class valedictorian, but that she hates public speaking.
She shared some favorite high school memories while waiting to walk the stage.
She said she liked going to football games every Friday night and showed her school spirit Thursday by wearing purple eye shadow and gold glitter fingernails.
Anderson said she was ready to go to college and move on.
The salutatorian, Cynthia Martinez, wore four medals, a gold stole and a red and gold rope around her neck. She said her parents were excited and proud of her accomplishments after their fifth year in the United States.
The graduates clapped and cheered in anticipation as they walked two-by-two from the gym doors to the football stadium.
“Don’t be sad that high school is over,” said Jessica Sood, senior class president. “Be happy that it happened and embrace the people who made it worthwhile.”
Contact Appeal-Democrat reporter Katy Sweeny at 749-4708 or ksweeny@appealdemocrat.com
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