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To download a list of graduation award winners, click here.

 

 

Poland Central School District recognized the 38 graduates in the Class of 2022 during the district's 88th annual commencement ceremony on Friday, June 24.

 

U.S. Olympian and luge bronze medal winner Erin Hamlin-Hodge gave the commencement address and talked about the students making their way to graduation through a pandemic.

 

"Yet, here we are, all together, finally," Hamlin-Hodge said.

 

She also referenced the underdog feeling of coming from a small town - something that the Remsen-native used as motivation in her athletic career and something Poland students have and can continue to use as they move forward.

 

"Never forget where you came from," Hamlin-Hodge said. "Never forget that grit. Never forget that chip on your shoulder."

 

The commencement ceremony took place outside of the school in front of family, friends, teachers and the school community. Dozens of awards and scholarships were announced, students received their diplomas and a traditional turning of the tassels took place.

 

At the beginning of the ceremony, Poland Principal Greg Cuthbertson gave an address and spoke about the challenging times students overcame.

 

Class of 2022 salutatorian Nathan Draper then gave his speech including discussion about turning setbacks into positives.

 

Following that, Class of 2022 valedictorian Caimin Roark spoke to her classmates including about enjoying the moments along the way as they look to their futures.

 

Near the end of the ceremony, Poland Superintendent Laura Dutton and Board of Education President Robert Batson presented the diplomas to the graduates.