Hats off to the Class of 2022

CENTER LINE/WARREN/STERLING HEIGHTS — This past month, a celebratory mood was felt throughout communities as local high school students graduated and received their diplomas.

The Warren Weekly emailed local school officials about this year’s high school graduations. Here is a look at the Class of 2022.

On June 6, Titan pride was felt when the Warren Woods Tower High School Class of 2022, in caps and gowns, graduated. Then it was time for the Warren Woods Public Schools Enterprise High School and adult education students to receive their diplomas June 9.

In Van Dyke Public Schools, a total of 116 students from Lincoln High School and the virtual Success Academy program graduated during the June 3 commencement ceremony on the high school football field.

According to Lincoln High School Principal Billie Sczepaniak, some of the top college choices are Michigan State University, Macomb Community College, Alma College, the University of Toledo, University of Detroit Mercy, and the College for Creative Studies.

“We do have students going into the military and into the trades for dental, auto, cosmetology and others,” Sczepaniak said.

She also offered some final words for this year’s seniors.

“Congratulations on your high school graduation. While this is a time to celebrate challenges successfully met, it is also time to look to the opportunities that lie ahead,” Sczepaniak said. “Your future may take you many miles from Lincoln High School, but I know that you will carry the memories of your experiences and the benefits of your education with you. Set your course boldly, using the skills and knowledge you have gained, knowing that you can meet the future with confidence.”

Here is a breakdown of the 1,040 Warren Consolidated Schools students that graduated: Cousino High School, 277; Sterling Heights High School, 319; Warren Mott, 322; and Community High School, 122.

The Community High commencement ceremony was held at the Warren Consolidated Schools Performing Arts Center inside Sterling Heights High School. The other three schools’ ceremonies were held separately at the Macomb Community College Sports & Expo Center in Warren.

Some career choices of the Warren Consolidated graduates include computer science, the medical field, engineering, accounting, graphic design, law enforcement and teaching. MSU, the University of Michigan, Oakland University, Central Michigan University, Western Michigan University, Wayne State University, MCC and Eastern Michigan University are where many of them will pursue their post-secondary education.

“My advice to the Class 2022 is to continue your hard work and perseverance that carried you through your high school career,” Warren Consolidated Schools Superintendent Robert Livernois said. “Your ability to rise above the pandemic and complete your studies makes you well suited for future success.”

Over in Center Line Public Schools, congratulations went out to 142 students who earned diplomas from Center Line High School and from the district’s virtual Academy 21 program. They officially graduated during a ceremony held June 4 at Jimmy John’s Field in Utica.

“We have students attending a wide variety of colleges both within our state and out-of-state. We have many students going directly into their chosen career path…firefighting, EMT, construction, etc.,” Superintendent Joseph Haynes said. “Their experience in our career academy model allowed them to earn certifications, gain valuable experience and make connections in their career path. We also have students going to trade schools and into the military. I’m extremely proud of this graduation class. They have overcome so many obstacles and challenges.

“I think our two student speakers, valedictorian Isabella Zosel and Class President Lyric Pingilley, had wonderful messages. Isabella spoke about the importance of a (supportive) family and her journey through high school,” Haynes said. “Lyric shared with the graduates that they ‘shouldn’t settle for beige walls,’ ‘let your voices be heard,’ and ‘don’t go with the norms.’  My speech focused on emitting dignity…always, understanding the importance and capacity of conveying respect and appreciating the presence and power of love.”

Cheers could be heard inside the Fitzgerald High School auditorium June 10 during commencement, where 206 graduates walked the stage to receive their diplomas. On the previous evening, June 9 at the high school, 28 Fitzgerald Virtual Academy students graduated.

Many Fitzgerald students are attending different colleges, including the University of Michigan, MSU, Grand Valley State University, EMU, WSU and MCC. Some graduates also will join the military or attend trade schools.

“Our students have been through so much and are an integral part of a world that is changing at a rapid pace,” Fitzgerald Public Schools Superintendent Kimberly Pawlukiewicz said. “I wish them all the best in their endeavors and hope they come back to share their successes with us.”