Manatee School for the Arts highlights talents of graduates at commencement
Before the diplomas were handed out, acknowledging their years of work and dedications, some graduates gave their final performance as students of Manatee School for the Arts.
Whether they were belting out notes, dancing across the stage or strumming their guitar, the graduates’ talents were shared for the crowd of family and friends gathered at Monday night’s ceremony at the Bradenton Area Convention Center in Palmetto.
Between performances, several students spoke to how the staff, students and experiences at the school changed their lives and made them feel welcome. Whether they were “originals,” students who started at Manatee School for the Arts in sixth grade, or they entered later on, they said they were part of the MSA family after taking a wide variety of classes.
Staff encouraged the students to make the most of what they have and remember that though their education at MSA may be finished, they should always continue to learn.
“Seniors, never lose that passion of discovery and learning,” Dr. Steven Marshall, assistant principal for academics, said.
Sara Nealeigh: 941-745-7081, @saranealeigh
Manatee School for the Arts
Graduates: 176
Speakers: Assistant Principal for Academics Dr. Steven Marshall, Principal Dr. Bill Jones and graduates Alaina Faulker, Toni Burnett, Olivia Serrano, Bryan Rodriguez, Larsen Godfrey, and Jonathan Davis
Shining moment: During this year’s ceremony, the school recognized a small group of students who graduated with a weighted GPA of 4.5 or above and four who graduated with associates degrees.
Interesting fact: Faulker didn’t plan on giving a speech, but when she was voted “Most Likely to be President,” she decided that was “part of the job,” and was the first of several students to speak at graduation.
Best quote: “School isn’t just about the lessons you learn, it’s the relationships that you create,” Godfrey said. “This is a place you don’t have to worry about being judged.”
This story was originally published May 15, 2017 at 9:31 PM with the headline "Manatee School for the Arts highlights talents of graduates at commencement."