Pickens High School Graduation

The Pickens High School class of 2011 graduated. Coach Kyle Rasco, who serves as athletic trainer for the Dragons’ athletic teams and health teacher at the school, gave the commencement address.The graduate processional was accompanied by the classic “Pomp and Circumstance.” Senior class treasurer, Jessica Bell, led the reflective moment of silence, followed by Haley Murphy’s rendition of the national anthem.

The capacity crowd was welcomed by Pickens principal, Christopher Williams. Rasco was introduced by senior class vice president, Chelsea Coleman. Coleman spoke of Rasco’s qualifications as well as his extensive experience at several “prestigious universities.”

Rasco, a PHS graduate, instructed the graduates to “soak in the moment” as well as “hold tight to your past.” Rasco touched on the theme of “The Best Days” and let the seniors know that their “best days are yet to come.”

“The Best Days,” the theme of the graduation, was expounded on by Kayla Barnad, senior class secretary. Jason Aldean’s “Laughed Until We Cried,” the class song, was played immediately afterward.

The salutatory address was given by Jessica Michelle Bell. Bell implored her fellow classmates to “be pleasantly surprised” by their future. The valedictory address was given by Michael Tyler Land. Land told the graduating class that “there is no point in doing something unless you’re going to be good at it.”

Diplomas were awarded by the superintendent, Ben Arp, aided by Frankie Sparks, senior class president. The Bell, also the Beta Club president, awarded Gold Cords.

Pickens County High School Graduation Video from Fetch on Vimeo.

After all diplomas were awarded, the crowd was treated to a rousing rendition of the Alma Mater performed by graduates, Dedra Banks, Tyler Weaver and Natalie Young. Prinicipal Williams presented the crowd with the graduating class of 2011 with the classic raining of caps instantaneously following.

Pickens High School Graduation Introduction from Fetch on Vimeo.

Kyle Rasco’s Commencement Address Pickens High School Graduation from Fetch on Vimeo.

Salutatory and Valedictory Address Pickens High School Graduation from Fetch on Vimeo.

Pickens High School Graduation Conclusion from Fetch on Vimeo.