CL Central Lauded as Unique Learning Community
By DONNA SANTI
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CRYSTAL LAKE – A field house filled with well-wishers swelled with “Tiger Pride” Saturday, as the 2010 Class of Crystal Lake Central High School assembled for the last time as a group of young dreamers.
A recurring theme during the ceremony was that the school, built in 1924, housed a strong learning community: With students who were diverse as individuals, yet open and accepting as a unit, and teachers that challenged the teens to see the future for its many opportunities.
Salutatorian Sarah Austin likened Central to the “perfect box of crayons,” each component uniquely colorful, but as a package, more effective and exciting. The faculty acted as the sharpener on the box, she said, which “kept us fine-tuned,” and helped, “mold us into who we are today.”
Valedictorian Kevin Scott joked about what the perfect speech contained, saying that he was told the formula was “40 percent memories, 40 percent motivation and 10 percent humor,” then offered his definition of success.
“Success is a direct result of confidence. … Nobody is ever guaranteed to succeed, but by having the confidence to stick our necks out just a little … we have a better chance.”
Austin plans to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison and major in biology/pre-med. Scott chose the University of Mississippi and a major in international studies.
Of the class of 343 students, 41 are Illinois State Scholars, Principal Steve Olson said. Eighty-five percent of the class plans to pursue higher education. Four people will join the military.
“Statistics classify you, but don’t define you,” he told them, suggesting that they be remembered for their accomplishments, which ranged from a meatloaf dinner for senior citizens, to fundraising nearly $10,000 for cancer research.
“Class of 2010,” Olson said, “stake your claim and make a difference.”
