Frankie Cocchini gives his salutatorian address.
Lackawanna Trail valedictorian Matthew Rakauskas shakes his father’s (superintendent Matthew Rakauskas) hand as he receives his diploma.
Lackawanna Trail graduates throw their caps in the air.
Graduate Jacob Breckinridge with his family. From left, are Lisa, John, Jacob, Adam and Hannah Breckinridge.
Kayla Wood delivers a speech to her fellow Lackawanna Trail graduates.
FACTORYVILLE – After a few days of smoky outdoor air, the sky cleared up in time for Lackawanna Trail’s annual graduation commencement on Saturday, June 10.
The commencement was held at the football stadium.
Principal Mark Murphy in his opening remarks told the 2023 graduates that they have learned more than math, science and history.
“The truth is you learn more about yourself through the experience than any textbook could ever teach you or any test could ever measure,” he said. “That’s what makes you unique, but the collective experience is what unites you as Lackawanna Trail Lions and you will forever be a Lion no matter where life’s journey takes you next.”
Murphy said that out of the 70 graduates, 50 plan to attend either a two-year or four-year college or university, 14 plan to go into the workforce, and 6 have chosen to serve in either the U.S. Army or Marine Corps.
Superintendent Matthew Rakauskas in his remarks reminisced about life lessons that he learned and used as a teacher, principal and superintendent. Remembering a “robust pep talk” from a football coach, he said that he was inspired to reflect on the hard work and imagine how it will feel when the medal is placed around his neck. He mentioned that he learned from a college professor to avoid biases and to gather evidence before reaching a final conclusion. He learned from his uncle to share the spotlight with others during an accomplishment.
“Your success is indeed earned but a portion of it is based upon those who came before you and those who are along aside you,” he said.
Rakauskas said that he also learned from the Class of 2023.
“They taught me perspective, strength, selflessness and compassion through their actions,” he said. “I am uniquely fortunate to have shared in their journey.”
Rakauskas encouraged the graduates to heed these lessons as they receive their diplomas.
Murphy commended student Kayla Wood recognizing her as a member of the Interact Club, student council president, and a volunteer for the Dalton Fire Company.
The premise of Wood’s speech was to acknowledge that teachers have laid the foundation for future actions. She recited a quote from screenwriter/novelist Dirk Wittenborn, “We are the sum of all people we have ever met. You change the tribe, and the tribe changes you.”
“I believe that this quote embodies the time I spent through the 13 years at Lackawanna Trail,” she said.
Wood mentioned that she had 50 teachers who poured wisdom, character and the advancement of knowledge.
“My education and knowledge has exponentially increased all because of the teachers I had along the way,” she said.
Murphy introduced salutatorian Frankie Cocchini, who was appointed to the United States Air Force Academy. Cocchini recalled in his speech his football coach Steve Jervis giving important messages during practice.
“One noteworthy subject he (Jervis) talked about was not taking things for granted,” he said. “One thing he told me to appreciate was that the community we were raised in. The unparalleled, valid support our community provides is truly awe-inspiring.”
Cocchini said that Jervis emphasized the importance of savoring the moment. He added that from graduation on, everything in life becomes faster.
“Pretty soon, you’ll be getting real adult jobs or graduating college,” he told his fellow graduates. “Some of us will even start families; therefore, we may try to reach back the good old days but we can’t. Before we go our separate ways and on to accomplish great things, I will like to take time to appreciate this moment we are in.”
Cocchini encouraged the Class of 2023 to do the same.
Rakauskas’ son, Matthew Rakauskas, became this year’s valedictorian. He is a member of the National Honor Society and Spanish Honor Society. He is also the president of the Inclusion Club and senior class treasurer. He was a 2023 National Merit Commended Student.
During his valedictorian address, Rakauskas brought up the origin of the Shakespearean metaphor “The world is my oyster.”
“I believe the saying now means the world is full of potential, and if you work towards a goal, you will succeed,” he said. “But what is the goal? What is success? That is something you must decide yourself.”
Rakauskas also said that there are various career paths. Quoting Shakespeare again, he said “it’s not in the stars to hold our destiny but ourselves.”
“The world’s a tough oyster to crack but there are many ways to open,” he said. “Find what’s best for you.”
