Park View Class of 2011 Graduates Look Back, Forward

Friends, family, and of course the members of Park View School's Class of 2011 gathered at Niles West High School Friday evening for the annual commencement ceremony. The pleasant summer weather was a perfect match for the joyous event. The school orchestra warmed up the audience by playing several pieces, including "Pachelbel's Canon" and "God Bless America," before launching into "Pomp and Circumstance" as the graduates marched into the auditorium. Last to enter--greeted by hearty cheers--were the teachers of Park View. 

Among the graduates was my daughter, Cynthia.

There were four student commencement speeches. Alex Rivera gave the welcome remarks. Krystian Gorski recounted memories at Park View, and when he said "criss-cross," his fellow graduates replied, "applesauce," which was the style of sitting preferred by the kindergarten teachers. Allison Salter was next, she viewed the graduation as a "surreal event," adding that it is something "that is little bit mind boggling, a little bit exciting, and a lot scary." Speaking last was Charlene Luna, who articulated on goals and dreams. "If you don't chase your dreams," she said, "they will always stay just dreams."

Principal Susan Wings announced that Krystian Gorski and Lillian Pashup were the recipients of the American Legion Award, which is annually given to a boy and girl who have displayed strong leadership, honor, courage, patriotism, service and scholarship. Aisha Usman was honored with the Judy Porst Service Award.

It was the final commencement ceremony for English teacher Susan Spevak--who is retiring after 38 years at the Morton Grove school.

The end foreshadows a new beginning for most of the Park View graduates--the great majority of them will attend Niles West in the fall.