As I watched the graduates at Matanzas High School, Flagler-Palm Coast High School, and Flagler Technical College walk across the stage to get their diploma or certificate, I was reminded of the impact we all have on the children of our Flagler County community. The Class of 2023 faced so much adversity on their path, yet there they were. They were excited to be there. Their parents, family, and friends in the audience could not contain themselves, and the teachers and staff were so proud of these accomplishments. I hate to lump everyone into a “class,” because each one of these graduates has a story. A few shared theirs when they were chosen to be a speaker, but there were hundreds of stories that were untold. Maybe just that teenager and their immediate family knows what they overcame to reach this milestone. Or, maybe it’s only the student who knows what it truly took to make it to graduation. But they still went to class, and, with the help of devoted teachers, got their diploma. That “never quit” attitude will serve them well in their next step in life.
As I close out my tenure as Superintendent of Flagler Schools, I want to thank our students for giving all they have. Our future is in great hands. I also want to thank the teachers, staff, and administrators across this district. You elevate excellence in all you do and we succeed only because you succeed. Finally, I thank our parents and other community members who actively participate in enhancing our student’s education. Whether you’re mentoring or volunteering in our schools, you are moving the needle in the right direction.
I am excited to see where LaShakia Moore will take Flagler Schools as the interim superintendent. She has been such an asset no matter what role she has held in our district. She is hands on, not afraid to ask the tough questions, and everything she does is centered around one very important question; “Is it best for the children?”
With that, let’s celebrate the end of the 2022-23 school year!
390 MHS Pirates received their diplomas inside the Ocean Center in Daytona Beach. The Class of 2023 completed 12,448 hours of community service. 33 students earned their Associate’s Degree from Daytona State College before they received their high school diploma! There were 34 AICE diplomas handed out while 49 students earned industry certifications. There were 150 honor graduates in this class, meaning they had a GPA of 3.75 or higher.
To view a replay of the MHS graduation ceremony, head to https://www.flaglerschools.com/about-us/news/details/~board/district-news/post/classof-2023-graduation-ceremonies
