Clintondale seniors say goodbye in ‘clap out’

CLINTON TOWNSHIP — Saying goodbye can be hard, but it’s a little easier when you’re being cheered on.

The Clintondale class of 2024 made their way through the hallways of the district’s middle school, elementary schools and high school to a round of applause on May 24. The “clap out” tradition allows seniors to walk the hallways of the schools they may have attended, saying so long to clapping teachers and underclassmen along the way.

This year’s class features 78 graduating seniors, according to Clintondale High School Principal Meloney Cargill. She said there has been a 98% college acceptance rate for the class. There are nine valedictorians. She said the class completed 3,200 hours of community service. According to Cargill, the 2024 class had a record number of valedictorians, scholarships accumulated and community service hours.

Cargill also highlighted the work of students Kamaria Green and La’la-Joy Mathews. The two started a Period Poverty chapter, ensuring students will not have to miss school due to their menstrual cycles.

Clintondale made the playoffs in football in 2023, falling to Almont in the district semifinal. The girls track and field team won the Division 3 regional this year. Eleven girls from the team and seven from the boys team qualified for the state finals at Kent City High School on June 1.

In a statement, Cargill said she was proud of the seniors’ ability to overcome obstacles, the biggest being COVID-19. She also praised their creativity and ability to work together.

“Your class has demonstrated determination and found a way to move toward your dreams and aspirations,” she said.