Power of Transformation: Windham High graduates 150th class

WILLIMANTIC — It was pomp and circumstance for the Windham High School Whippets as they marched through the gates under a balloon arch to their graduation ceremony.

The class of 2024, made up of 144 students, was the first class to use the new track and field for the graduation ceremony on Monday evening.

The school has been under renovation for the last several months and is expected to be completed later this year.

“The Windham High School leadership team is so proud of the class of 2024, and they have come a long way through the renovation; they were a class that started with COVID, and they have come out like shining stars with bright futures ahead of them,” said Windham High School principal Pamela Cavanagh.

Valedictorian Kyleigh Miller said her experience at Windham High School was transformed.

“Like Windham High, we’ve been transformed during our years here,” Miller said. “I can confidently say that Windham has truly shaped me into the individual I am today. Over these past four years, I have gained immense knowledge both in the classroom and through all the people and experiences I have encountered.”

Miller said during her time at WHS, she learned the value of perspective.

“Oftentimes, people, including myself, get so caught up in their own world of problems and worries that they forget to take a moment to recognize the worlds of those around them,” Miller said. “Learning alongside so many different types of individuals has made me value the significance of acknowledging and appreciating everyone’s background.”

Miller added while maintaining good grades throughout high school was challenging, it was nothing compared to what

some of her classmates went through.

“It is essential to remember that we all have our own set of struggles, and we should always try to deepen our understanding of each other’s stories in order to truly acknowledge one another,” Miller said.

What made this graduation unique and special was the fact that the valedictorian and salutatorian are best friends.

Alyssa Lebiszczak, the salutatorian, said graduation is the day they have been waiting for since entering the building.

“It has been a long journey here, moving from classroom to classroom, getting interrupted in class by the sounds of drilling in the walls, and not knowing which hall is going to be closed next,” Lebiszczak said.

Lebiszczak said the journey through high school was marked by triumphs, challenges and countless memories that will forever shape their lives.

“Through high school, I have learned a lot of things, but one thing I don’t think I will ever learn or understand is how fast time really goes,” Lebiszczak said. “Many people have told me that time flies and I should treasure my high school years.”

Lebiszczak then thanked several teachers who have been there for her over the past four years: Mimi, Dr. Koljian, Coach Clancy and Mrs. Godbout.

“I will forever carry with me the lessons you have taught me as I embark on these next chapters of my life,” Lebiszczak said.

At the end of her speech, Lebiszczak quoted Zach Bryan, who said: “I do not and will not fear tomorrow as I feel as though today has been enough.”

“We should take this quote and remember to live in the moment and enjoy the present as we move on to these next steps in our life while never forgetting the moments that got us here to where we are today,” Lebiszczak said.

Mayor Tom DeVivo, who met with students in the gymnasium just before the start of the ceremony, said he is really proud of the graduating class and he has known some of them since they were in the second grade.

“This is one of the best classes forever - 2024 is a great year,” DeVivo said. “These kids have so far to go, and they are going to do great. In this room is a future mayor, and I’m certain of it.”

Class vice president Marlon Perez said he was excited and was looking forward to a new path.

“It’s going to be a new challenge, and new doors are going to open,” Perez said. “Everyone has their own pathways, and I’m excited to be able to witness it all.”

Perez said after high school, he will attend the University of St. Joseph to study criminology and play soccer there.

“I just feel the image that is seen today in police officers are seen as not trusting, and I want to change that,” Perez said. “I want to be a State Trooper and be the first in my family to be in law enforcement.”

Karla Negron, the class treasurer, said she is excited about the future. During her time at Windham High, she played tennis and was captain for the last two years.

“I became the treasurer this year and was a part of the yearbook club,” Negron said. “I plan on attending UConn to major in psychology in the pre-med track. I will study for four years and then go to medical school.”

Perez said she enjoys helping and listening to people. She wants to become a psychologist.