Schools out, graduates to move on
By JIM EPPERSON News Herald Staff

Courtney Culpepper, the valedictorian of Kilgore High School, wrote her speech Tuesday for the graduation ceremony, hoping to share an important message to her peers.

Culpepper said that Shakespeare summed it up in the Twelfth Night when he wrote, "Do not be afraid of greatness." She wants her peers to know that they are ready to follow their passions and that they deserve it.

"We have earned our right to go into this world and make our own path," Culpepper said.

Kilgore, Sabine , and Leverett's Chapel high schools will all be participating in high school graduation ceremonies. A time when parents will learn about transitioning their sons and daughter from children living at home to young adults.

Demi Thompson, who is graduating from Sabine High School, said she is ready for the transition. She already has 30 college credits by taking dual classes the school district offers.

Thompson ended up with a 5.05 GPA and was fourth in her class, while she was the head cheerleader and competed in cheer competitions throughout her high school tenure.

"I pretty much have my freshman year out of the way," Thompson said.

Like many other high school students, Thompson will leave home and seek college life.

When the Sabine High School Seniors walk across the stage to receive their diplomas, they will be led by Valedictorian Jeremy Gray and Salutatorian Marissa Huskey. The ceremony will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Kilgore College Dodson Auditorium.

Kilgore High School will have their graduation at 8 p.m. Thursday at St. John Memorial Stadium in Kilgore. The valedictorian is Courtney Culpepper and the salutatorian is Kevin Zevely.

Leverett's Chapel High School will have their graduation at 7 p.m. Friday in the auditorium.