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Following the ceremony, graduates enjoy a Project Graduation class sleepover with a bounce house set up in the cafeteria, a hypnotist, lawn games, a bonfire, movies and an endless supply of food.

THORNDIKE — The Mount View High School gymnasium was packed to the rafters June 12, with family, friends and loved ones, cheering on the class of 2022 graduates.

In all, 65 students were honored with diplomas Sunday, with the majority planning to continue their education at four-year or community colleges. Two students will go on to serve in the military, 18 to colleges, 15 will go on to employment, 22 to community colleges, five are undecided, and three will continue their learning through other continuing education opportunities.

Mount View High School senior Macala Parks after receiving her diploma June 12 in the gymnasium. Photo by Fran Gonzalez

With earlier weather reports calling for rain, the event was moved inside in case of inclement weather. The day ended up being picture perfect, if not a bit on the humid side inside the gym.

Class president Mia Rae, valedictorian Draedyn Furrow and salutatorian Benjamin Heath all gave moving speeches, while many students received awards, certificates of recognition, and scholarships. In his speech, Mount View Principal Zackary Freeman acknowledged Hazel Fuller, a senior who died in October of last year. “I know she is watching over these proceedings today,” he said.

Mount View High School seniors Ethan Emery on left, and Eric Braley, before the Class of 2022 graduation June 12. Photo by Fran Gonzalez

Project Graduation took the form of a class sleepover at the school that night. The annual tradition has seniors celebrate each other in a safe and responsible manner. Seniors enjoyed a large bounce house set up in the cafeteria, a hypnotist, lawn games, a bonfire, movies and an endless supply of food, to name a few of the activities.

The class this year raised over $70,000 with several fundraising efforts including flamingo flocking, car washes, a color run, a craft fair, lawn signs, coin jars, quilt raffle, a car show, bottle drives and an ATV raffle. The class is headed for a three-day tour of Universal Orlando Studios next week where they will stay on site.

Mount View High School seniors Mia Rae, left, and Giulia Ferrando, talk with friends June 12, before commencement exercises. Photo by Fran Gonzalez

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