Class of '08 in Geneva can now 'go into the real world'

Education is a lifelong experience, and it wasn't too late for Geneva High School Principal Tom Rogers to teach something to the graduating Class of 2008.

As they sat in the school auditorium Sunday, making final preparations before proceeding into the gymnasium, some students were uncertain about the protocol for the tassels hanging from their mortarboards.

"It's right now, left later," Rogers said, explaining that each graduate should wear the tassel on the right, and then flip it to the left side after receiving the diploma. Tassels flew from the left side to the right amid laughter.

Later, mortarboards and tassels flew into the air as the 454 graduates celebrated their achievement during the 132nd annual commencement ceremonies at the high school.

From all accounts, this class of students was special. Rogers said that a larger than usual number of faculty members attended the ceremonies, in honor of the graduates.

In his remarks to the graduates and their parents, Superintendent Kent Mutchler also paid tribute to the class.

"This is an exceptional class of students who have done phenomenal things, and will continue to do phenomenal things," Mutchler said.

The students, decked out in their robes and other graduation finery, filed into the gymnasium as their parents, family and friends looked on.

"I'm excited and kind of nervous," said graduating senior Taylor Frable.

Frable plans to study nutrition at the University of Iowa. She said her education at Geneva High School was good preparation.

"I really liked the teachers," Frable said. "You never felt uncomfortable asking questions."

Soon-to-be graduate Terrance O'Connor thanked the school's teachers during opening remarks for the ceremonies.

"Thank you for teaching us, for inspiring us, for lighting the way," O'Connor said.

Rachel Urbelis was selected by the school administration to be the senior class speaker. She said the students, now comfortable with their high school surroundings, face new challenges and experiences.

"The time has come for us to leave our individual comfort zones," Urbelis said.

English teacher Heather Peters delivered an address on behalf of the high school faculty.

"The real winners are those who know how to make every moment count," Peters said. "I mean, really count."

The students seemed to be taking Peters' advice, and were enjoying the moment.

"I'm so excited to graduate," Christian Fencl said. "It's awesome to go into the real world."