Garden Spot High School schedules graduation

When more than 200 Garden Spot High School (GSHS) students graduate at the school, 669 E. Main St., New Holland, on Wednesday, May 29, at 6:30 p.m.,two members of the Class of 2024 will address their fellow classmates, family members, faculty, and friends.

Emma Kauffman, daughter of Heather and Jason Kauffman of New Holland, and Mikaila Whenry, daughter of Donna and Chadwick Whenry of New Holland, were both chosen from among several students who auditioned to speak.

Kauffman has titled her speech "Training Complete," and in it, she will liken graduating to preparing to take on a new job. "Now we will go out to do the job on our own, with help, obviously," she stated. Kauffman said she was inspired to audition to speak by her participation in GSHS activities. "I wanted to stay involved and be part of the ceremony and give advice to my peers as we move on," she said. She is glad she attended GSHS because of the commitment of school faculty members. "I think we have really great teachers and administrators," she pointed out. "They aren't here just to do a job; they're here to invest in us as people." Following graduation, Kauffman plans to attend DeSales University in Center Valley, where she will study medicine in an accelerated physician assistant program.

Whenry titled her speech "Gifts of the Mundane," noting, "It's all about taking in the small things." Whenry went on to note that small things have significance that is not necessarily recognized. "We always want big things. We forget to take in the small things that make our lives important," she pointed out. Whenry said that as a band member, she has enjoyed listening to senior speeches at commencement since her freshman year. "I loved them, and I wanted to be part of something I loved," she stated. In the fall, Whenry will attend Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, where she will major in interior design. Her goal is to take part in the accelerated master's program in sustainable design. Whenry said she is glad she attended GSHS because of all the friendships and relationships she has made. "There have been opportunities to be part of small communities and clubs, and I have enjoyed getting to know a lot of people and working with a lot of people through the years," Whenry stated.

Both girls expressed gratitude to those who have helped them reach this point. "Thanks to everybody," said Kauffman.

"It isn't just us," added Whenry. "We were inspired by people all around us."

Tickets are necessary to attend the graduation ceremony.