By Mia Norris

Student Writer

On June 4, students of the Class of 2023 graduated from Milford High School. It was a nice day, with typical New England weather making its presence known with slight rain that rested on top of students’ caps and gowns. 

But getting to this day was not an easy route given their fight through the pandemic, and starting their journey with only half of a freshman year which is knownto be a crucial year in the development of social connections and academic head starts. And even after these challenges, the members of this class were finally able to walk across the stage and celebrate their accomplishments together. 

Starting off the ceremony, students proceeded onto the football field accompanied by the MHS Band. After welcoming remarks from Principal Joshua Otlin, Class President Tessa Scrimgeour spoke about her time at Milford High and spoke directly to her classmates. 

Mentioning the experience and effect of the pandemic, and talking about the impact of the students that made a difference to her journey at Milford. 

“The Class of 2023 is a unique group of students that I have been fortunate to work for and be a part of. Graduation was a beautiful, slightly chilly, day where I got to watch peers and friends be recognized and celebrated for their years of hard work and dedication,” Scrimgeour said. “Members of this class have already made lasting impacts in our community, and I am incredibly excited and grateful to see everyone’s next steps in life. With this new freedom I encourage everyone to continue to push themselves to learn, to teach others, and to give back to whatever community they find next.” 

Next, salutatorian Jessica Calarese and valedictorian Haley Jansons spoke about memorable moments within the halls of Milford High. 

When asked about her reflections on graduation, Jansons said, “I’m very proud to have been a part of the Class of 2023. We got especially close and tighter knit this year, so it was very heartwarming to see everyone together celebrating at graduation.” 

Following these speeches Principal Otlin once again came to the podium to make one final address to the class before the students crossed the stage and graduated.