This is an academic award speech given by Wendy Stackable, the English Department Head.  It is such an appropriate tribute to the graduating seniors.

One of our seniors, Madi Pafford, wrote a poem recently: 

The Climb of a Lifetime

The bluff was lush and grassy when I began my adventure;

 The stroll was pleasant amidst the ambrosial air.

I was not afraid, for this was no risky venture;

The brook bubbled, the birds chirped, unaware.

But slowly, but surely, the hill became bitter.

The walk turned tumultuous, tough and awful.

The air grew much thinner

And the lush green became a beige quite unlawful.

The water began to roar, bellow, and rumble;

This hill was no hill.

I was alone on a mountain and starting to stumble.

This trek was a roller coaster without any thrill.

However, I kept walking.

And as I rounded the bend, I heard a lone bird singing.

I am nearly at the top now; I see the field of red flowers so welcoming.

       I keep walking.

In so many ways, this poem reflects our journey together-as students, as teachers, as families. The road promises adventure and personal growth, but before we know it, we are straining to gain ground and to keep our footing. Then, almost as if by magic – we see the summit.

Students, we want you to know that we have travelled the road with you this year. We have tried to point out the best way to go when the path seemed dark or confusing. We tried to give you tools that would make your journey easier. We have heard your questions, we have read your papers, and we have witnessed your fiery debates – and here is what we have discovered:

• You appreciate wisdom.
• You value justice.
• You want to be courageous.
• And, you are diligent.

Do you realize that from the time you entered Logic School in the fifth grade to the time you graduate from CCA, you will have read over fifty books? You will have written over forty papers!

You have made great strides this year, and we are very proud of you. You climbed the hill, and you kept walking! As a result, God has made you stronger. He has been teaching you about virtue and faithfulness so that you can engage and change the culture. We want to celebrate you, our students who helped to shape the journey.

Congratulations, seniors. Well done!