Pike County High School Valedictorian Amanda Jordan chose a quote from Bob Marley as a parting thought for her fellow graduates at Thursday night’s graduation ceremony at Bulldog Stadium.

“Love the life you live; live the life you love,” she quoted the noted author and added,  “do what makes you happy.”

Jordan said the graduation ceremony was a celebration of new beginnings and challenged the Class of 2012 to dare to dream and not be swayed from their goals when faced with obstacles that are sure to come.

She expressed appreciation to the parents of the Class of 2012 and to the teachers and faculty at PCHS for the support and encouragement that has been a catalyst to success for the students individually and the class collectively.

Jordan said she will miss her classmates but “this is not goodbye forever.”

“It’s just goodbye for now,” she said.

Cody Brooks, class salutatorian, also thanked the parents and teachers for their dedication and persistence.

“We thank you for all that you did to make sure this day would come,” Brooks said addressing the teachers. “It has meant so much to us.”

 

He thanked the parents for just one more warning to “get up and get to school,” for help with homework “when needed” and for sacrificing $10 for a highly anticipated field trip.

“We couldn’t have done it without you,” he said. “I know I am ready and I embrace the challenges ahead.”

Willie Wright, PCHS principal, said the Class of 2012 is a unique group.

“This is an ideal class,” he said. “They have done what needed to be done to succeed. They have embraced what we do here at Pike County High School. We expect great things from this group of graduates and great things will happen.”

Wright wished the graduates all the best life has to offer and said that they are all well prepared for whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead.