A portion of Maggie Lohmann’s graduation speech indicated that she learned much at Bridgeport High School; things like complicated algebraic expressions and principles of chemistry. But no less important, she said, were opportunities she came across to put compassion into action. She talked about events like Student Council’s Shop for Tots when students take children Christmas shopping for clothes, toys and gifts for others. She also said how much it meant to her to see the community shower little 5-year-old cancer victim Jack Rollins with cards and well wishes and to raise funds for him and his family. 

 

It is certainly true. Much of the most vital knowledge and treasured experiences we gather along life’s path do not come from a textbook.

 

That ran through my head throughout last Sunday evening’s graduation ceremony as I saw members of school administration - their final duties for the senior class completed - take on a role similar to a proud parent. 

 

Before it all even started, I watched the grads – paired two by two – emerge from “the tunnel” at Wayne Jamison Field. On the girls’ side was an upcoming senior female student who handed each a rose. On the boys’ side was Assistant Principal Mary Francis Smith, who performed a careful last minute check of each. With a quick glance, she straightened a tie or graduation cap, then gave him a nod before he and his partner stepped out onto the field to the classic “Pomp and Circumstances.”

 

A short time later, each graduate walked across the stage and approached Principal Mark DeFazio to get his or her diploma. Each met the administrator with an extended arm and after many of those handshakes came an embrace. Some messed around with their principal of four years, giving him a light punch on the forearm – or stopping to take a selfie. You could tell he knew their personalities and was enjoying that one last time to interact with those kids.

 

When all 182 graduates made their walks and had diplomas in hand, Assistant Principal Matt DeMotto presented the class of 2016 and told the graduates they could switch their tassels to the other side. Then, of course, the caps went flying.

 

To send off his 2016 graduates, Mr. DeFazio played a popular country song. And from where I saw sitting, the faces of the graduates showed that they appreciated those words and took them to heart. My eyes wondered from graduate to graduate as I saw thoughtful concentration and even some tears. It was pretty touching that in addition to making sure those graduates had mastered their curriculum,