Class of 2006 bids farewell to Maricopa High School and hello to new beginnings

The Maricopa High School Class of 2006 officially “turned their tassels” after receiving their diplomas in Friday night’s ceremony held on the high school football field.

First there’s the waiting for both students and staff prior to the ceremonies.

Then the final walk to that familiar football field.

Finally it’s time for the processional to the strains of the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance.”

Following the “National Anthem” sung by Julia Lopez and Priscila Murguia, Stephanie Ball introduced Principal Burnie Hibbard and Cortney Talley, class secretary, who welcomed the 75 graduates and the large crowd of families and friends. Class Vice President Nicole Copeland presented the senior gift, a bike rack, to the school.

Salutatorian Kari Deats told the audience, “Maricopa has gone from a no-name town to a thriving city–soon to be 3A (in sports). We have learned how to continue moving forward while everything around us was changing.” She also spoke of this year’s accomplishments, including 10 of 14 sports teams going to State, the first foreign exchange student, the many Advanced Placement (AP) classes offered for the first time, the Governor’s visit and the Tour of Hope, in addition to many other school activities and events.

“No matter where you go, never forget Maricopa High School,” directed Deats, who will be heading to Virginia to live with her mother and attend community college, then the University of Virginia. “Through all of our learning we’ve gained understanding, and, through understanding, we get wisdom, which prepares us to face the new challenges that lie ahead.”

Salutatorian Kari Deats.

Valedictorian Kasey Hampton.

Lopez introduced her volleyball co-captain and class valedictorian, Kasey Hampton, by praising her for holding a full-time job, achieving a 4.0 grade point average, being active in service clubs and dealing with health issues.

“We are all distinct individuals,” noted Hampton. She told her classmates, “If there is no hope for the future, there is no power in the present.” Hampton will enroll at Northern Arizona University in the fall as a pre-med student. In closing, she gave the graduates’ parents a message, “You can uncross your fingers. We’re here; we made it!”

Both Deats and Hampton received the new scholastic diploma and a gold medallion for completing courses required for university admission. Other graduates receiving that distinction were Danielle Adams, Larissa Bonnell, Temperance James, James Johanson, Clint Moreno, Regine Raymond and Elizabeth Snow.

Class and staff members stand for the graduation song “Friends Forever.”

Family members and friends filled the stands and the chairs on the field.

Among the graduates were (left to right) Jessica Turrey and twins Nidia and Nadia Loredo.

Maricopa Unified School District Superintendent Alma Farrell, who will be retiring effective June 30, was the evening’s guest speaker. The class presented her with a bouquet of roses commemorating her 32 years of service to the district.

Farrell recalled that she, too, graduated from Maricopa High School–44 years ago with the Class of 1962. That class, the largest to date then, had 16 graduates, and she has kept in contact with 14 of them.

Maricopa High School Principal Burnie Hibbard and guest speaker and retiring Superintendent Alma Farrell.

Staff members like CTE Director Jack Wallbrecht wore robes and hoods. His light blue hood indicates a degree in education.

“We care about you, your future and what path you take,” Farrell told the class. “Tomorrow morning is the beginning of a new day; you can waste it or use it for good.” She advised the graduates to think carefully because thoughts become words; words become actions, and those actions become the habits that form character. “Your character is your destiny,” she said. “It is the choices you make, and the promises you keep.”

Speaking to the graduates about the future and their place in the working world, Farrell noted, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. Be safe and give life all you’ve got!”

Governing Board members Tracy Davis and Michael Muriett with a table full of diplomas.

As the graduates file past, governing board members Michael Muriett and Delia Carlyle wait to present the next diploma. The Maricopa High School band under the direction of Randy George provided the evening’s music.

Governing board members Delia Carlyle, Tracy Davis and Michael Muriett presented the diplomas. Following their official introduction as graduates of Maricopa High School, the Class of 2006 “turned their tassels,” leaving as part of their legacy the class motto:

“The memories we’ve shared. The time we’ve had together. They will stay with us always – goodbye is not forever.”

Congratulations and much success to Maricopa High School’s Class of 2006!