Newton Citizen

COVINGTON - Family and friends gathered in the gymnasium at Alcovy High School Saturday afternoon where 277 graduates received their long-awaited diplomas. The third class to graduate from Alcovy High consisted of 33 honor graduates, including salutatorian Mary Wright, and valedictorian Kimberly Rary.

Senior class President Elizabeth Duke led the Pledge of Allegiance and then introduced the student body president, Christopher Evans. Evans, with the guests to the ceremony shouting enthusiastically, welcomed the class of 2009 and their guests, as well as Principal David Easterday and Superintendent of Newton County Schools Dr. Steven Whatley.

Rary, when addressing her classmates and others, shared a message from the Dr. Seuss book, "Oh, The Places You'll Go."

Wright encouraged the class of 2009 to have passion once they are committed and to give it their absolute best.

The Atlanta Journal Cup was awarded to Ebony Patrick. The Cup is given to acknowledge a well-rounded student who excels and shows leadership in the arts, academics, community service and athletics.

To date, graduating seniors at Alcovy have been offered more than $2 million in scholarships to such post-secondary institutions as Georgia Military College, Mercer University, Morehouse College and the University of Alabama.

- Taylor Queen

SideBar: At A Glance

Alcovy High School Graduation

· Location: Alcovy High School gymnasium

· Valedictorian: Kimberly Rary

· Salutatorian: Mary Wright

· Number of Graduates: 277