The Grovetown High School gym was filled Thursday evening as around 70 seniors graduated after completing summer school.
Columbia County School District Superintendent Dr. Steven Flynt congratulated the seniors on graduating.
“Your presence here today shows that you value education and what it means to be a high school graduate,” Flynt said. “It shows your dedication and commitment to success and is only the beginning of what we know will be a very bright and promising start to your next chapter. You’ve officially made your mark as a member of the graduating class of 2023 and have continued a Columbia County School District tradition in which a majority of you are planning to continue your learning as you enter post-secondary programs. The vision of the Columbia County School District is to lead the nation in educational excellence where each student is engaged, enriched and inspired.”
Flynt also thanked parents and family members for providing a foundation and supporting the efforts of the school district in the education of the students. He also thanked faculty and staff members for their dedication to the students and helping make them successful.
Lakeside High School senior Esiah Johnson said it felt amazing to be graduating. After graduation he plans to join the Air Force before going to school for nursing.
“It’s like a really big relief to finally graduate and do better things with my life,” Johnson said.
As for what he’ll miss about high school, he said the teachers, the people there and his girlfriend who is graduating next year.
Tamiyah Harden, a graduate from Grovetown High School, gave the welcome and told students graduation is not the end, it’s only the beginning as they enter the next chapter of their lives. This next chapter could be entering the military, getting a post-secondary education or another path.
Evans High School, Greenbrier High School, Grovetown High School, Harlem High School and Lakeside High School all had seniors graduating.
Stephanie Hill is a staff writer covering Columbia County government for The Augusta Press. Reach her at stephanie@theaugustapress.com.
