With the Upper Perkiomen High School Band playing Pomp and Circumstance, the 227 students of the 2016 graduating class entered the gymnasium for their big moment.

                In the presence of friends and family, the soon-to-be graduates would later stand in front of them, accepting the acknowledgment of their accomplishment of a high school education.  It was a night were they would sing their Alma Mater one last time as a class.

                The student speakers of the evening, Megan Ritting, Mahlon Schaffer, and Morgan Rynn shared poignant memories of their education and days spent in the halls and rooms of the schools that have become part of their learning history; thanking everyone from family to teachers for helping them through the journey and providing inspiration for the future.

                Schools Superintendent Dr. Alexis McGloin brought tears to a few eyes as she cited several favorite student quotes posted by students in their yearbook.  Perhaps summarized best with The Class of 2016's motto "The best way to predict the future is to create it" by Peter Drucker.

                Class officers are Megan Ritting, president, Bryan Costanzo, vice-president, Allison Ritting, secretary, and Regan McComb, treasurer.  Dr. Mark Thomas is their advisor.

                Prior to presenting the Class of 2016 to School Board President John L. Gehman, Upper Perkiomen High School Principal Dr. Robert J. Carpenter shared a profile of the class that included: 43 senior students attended Western Center for Technical Studies (WCTS) Senior Ceremony.

                Twelve vocational technical students will be furthering their education at colleges or technical schools; 50 students received 68 local awards at the Senior Awards Ceremony with a total award money of $57,500; four students will be entering military service; Four students will be furthering their education in a certificate program of study; 65 students are enrolled in a two-year associate degree and/or technical program; and 89 students are enrolled in a four, five, or six-year baccalaureate or masters degree program.

                In summary, Carpenter said "154 students or 67% of the class will be continuing their education beyond high school."

                After every graduate crossed the stage and passed through the congratulatory line of officials to collect their diplomas and well wishes, the traditional sea of flying black and white "mortarboards" was launched over their heads.  Many of the caps were smartly decorated with photos, words, and other memories.

                The class song is Journey's Don't Stop Believin' and as the graduates enter into their futures, they all have the opportunity to "hold onto that feeling."