‘Connections With People Matter’

Sense Of Community Noted As PM Seniors Graduate

“The world is not ready for the things that these graduates have in store,” class valedictorian Kovyk Chandler said at Parry McCluer High School’s 2024 graduation.

“They will tear down the walls and go places that others have not. They will raise the bar of success. They will redefine what it means to be successful, and they will certainly change the world,” said Chandler.

Parry McCluer High School graduated 50 students last Friday night in Virginia Military Institute’s Cameron Hall.

Though the class was small, speakers at the graduation celebrated the connections they were able to make.

“I’m extremely grateful to be part of this community. Many people who come from outside Buena Vista are astonished at the size of our high school, let alone the size of this class,” Sydney Mahaffey said during her salutatorian address.

“Sometimes they comment on opportunities they think I’m missing, but they just don’t get it. With a small school comes a family like no other,” she said.

“Everyone shows up for Friday night football games, everyone goes all out for dances and school activities. Teachers work 10 times as hard for you, because they know you personally, as well as your mom, and your dad, and your siblings, and possibly even your grandparents.”

Mahaffey encouraged her classmates to cherish the community they had been a part of.

“Although we are stepping into the next chapter of our lives, this community will always stay with us,” she said.

Though she acknowledged the uncertainty that comes when stepping out of a familiar environment, Mahaffey reminded her fellow graduates of the importance of remaining grounded in the present.

“Many of us are wondering what will happen after today, worrying about the college we will attend in the fall, or the job we will be starting. It’s easy to start living in the future, worried about what is coming next, over and over, forever,” she said.

“However, in the words of Emily Dickinson, ‘forever is composed of nows.’ Fretting about the past, and worrying about the future robs us of these nows,” Mahaffey said.

“Living in the present allows us to be fully in the moment - to experience the joy and sorrow of our life, to take life one step at a time. We may not know all the answers to our questions yet, and that’s OK,” she said.

Todd Jones, Parry McCluer High School principal, thanked the members of the graduating class for their example.

“Seniors, after two years of being at Parry McCluer High School and becoming a Blue, I have come to value one word that you have modeled to me that I think best embraces the community of Buena Vista and Parry McCluer High School,” he said. “Yes, you have taught me.”

That word - connection - was Jones’ focus during his address, and something he encouraged the graduating class to remain aware of in their lives.

“Upon arrival in the community, I’ve been privileged to hear your stories, amazing tales and stories of what has been accomplished in the classroom, what you have accomplished in the arts, what you have accomplished on the field or court,” he said.

“In each and every one of these stories, there were connections that were shared. These included your teachers, your friends, your families, and events surrounding them,” said Jones.

“Over time, these connections are etched into your memories, and have molded you into who you are today. You will always remember them.”

Jones spoke of Buena Vista as a special place for students to be making these connections.

“Connections with people matter, and the Buena Vista community understands this. The places, the sights, the sounds, and most importantly, the people,” he said.

“These are things of immense value in our lives. The Buena Vista community values these connections and they are part of you,” he said.

Jones encouraged the graduating class to remember the importance of connection with others as they prepared to step into the next chapter of their lives.

“As you have heard tonight, connections and people will always be a part of your lives. Do not shy away from the positive interactions with others and be willing to allow others to help you. Be willing to teach others and always be willing to learn from others,” said Jones.

“Independently we can accomplish amazing goals. But through our connections, those people we interact with, we can change the world,” he said.

Jones reminded the students that their community in Buena Vista would always remain part of their lives.

“Remember that you will always have a home at the school. You’re about to graduate from Parry McCluer High School and be alumni,” he said. “Be proud of this heritage, share it with pride, and never forget, you will always be a Blue.”