May 17, 2025 | By Dr. Kimberley Thompson-Hairston
The Stokes Early College High School Class of 2025 gathered to celebrate a milestone years in the making. The morning graduation ceremony honored 37 graduates who achieved something few high school students can claim—earning a diploma and, for many, a college credential.
This year’s class marked the 13th graduating cohort of the early college program. Of the 37 graduates, 32 completed a degree or certificate through Forsyth Technical Community College. Collectively, the class was awarded $3.8 million in scholarships, a reflection of their commitment, talent, and determination.
Principal David Durham celebrated the students' journey, highlighting the many field trips and opportunities that allowed them to explore the surrounding area, learn beyond the classroom, and grow into lifelong learners.
In a nod to the spirit of adventure and the promise of the unknown, Durham shared a fitting quote from Emmett Brown of Back to the Future:
“Your future hasn’t been written yet. No one’s has. Your future is whatever you make it—so make it a good one.”
Delivering his 39th graduation speech, Superintendent Brad Rice tailored his message for this unique generation—digital natives who’ve grown up with smartphones, TikTok dance trends, and the occasional frantic scramble to unmute on Google Meet.
Rice honored the immense challenge these students accepted: balancing both high school and college coursework. “That takes more than brains,” he said. “It takes resilience, stamina, and the ability to think creatively when the world gets weird—which it certainly did.”
Dr. Spriggs, President of Forsyth Tech, applauded the graduates' drive. “I’ve always believed that investing in yourself is incredibly impressive,” she said. “You’ve done just that—embracing challenge, embracing lifelong learning.”
Wisdom from Mr. Clary:
Beloved tutor and retired teacher Mr. Clary delivered heartfelt reflections to the class, offering advice and sharing notes of wisodm:
“Say yes to opportunities.”
“Time moves fast. Three letters to remember: TMO—Time Management and Organization.”
“Joy is listening to each other. Hug someone—human connection matters.”
“You are you for a reason. There are no mistakes.”
“And don’t forget to have fun.”
Student Voices: Kaylee DiJohn and Kayleigh Hepler
Student speaker Kaylee DiJohn, the class Salutatorian, reflected on the unique paths that led each graduate to this moment. “Each of us has followed a different path, but we stayed true to ourselves,” she said. “We didn’t just think outside the box—we forgot the box entirely.”
Kayleigh Hepler, the class Valedictorian, emphasized the importance of staying involved and remaining grateful. She thanked the families, faculty, and friends who supported the class along the way. “We brought passion and creativity into everything we did,” she said. “And we are better for it.”
Music, Memories, and Messages for the Future
The ceremony featured powerful musical tributes:
Luke and Levi Floyd performed “Stop This Train”, a moving reminder of how fast time moves.
Linnea Stack sang “A Million Dreams”, inspiring the audience to keep imagining new possibilities.
“Once a Falcon, Always a Falcon”
Congratulations to the Stokes Early College High School Class of 2025. Your journey is just beginning—and your story is yours to write.