NEW PORT RICHEY - An hour before commencement, Jarrett Busa, donning his black gown and gold cum laude honors cord, warily checked the skies as he strode the outdoor walkways to the graduates' "holding spot" in the Community Building at Mitchell High School. Inside, career specialist Sue Griggs doled out hugs while keeping an eye on the Weather Channel.
"They said there's a 30 percent chance of rain," said Griggs, adding that officials decided at 3 p.m. to go ahead with plans to hold the ceremony in the outdoor stadium. There was a quick downpour that came through about 4, Griggs said. "But it looks like we're going to be all right."
During the last-minute primping, Jennifer Thompson fretted about her not-so-sensible choice of shoes - black backless sandals with 2-inch heels - while giving friend Malia Zeglarsky the hair spray treatment.
"I'm nervous. I tripped at my eighth-grade graduation," Jennifer said. "I'm afraid I'm going to trip again."
Outside, Blake Westlake, wondered aloud whether the glaring sun would spoil the videotaping of his younger sister, Kelly, when it was her turn to cross the stage.
There was no need for worry.
There were no downpours; Jennifer remained upright, and when it came to that all important moment, the 371 graduating seniors collected their diplomas against a backdrop of gold curtain and diffused sunset perfect for filming.
This was the second class to graduate from Mitchell High School but the first to hear the school's alma mater, written this year by graduate David Furry.
During her speech, class President Kristin McClanahan reflected on the success of this class and the past year: the football team that made the playoffs for the first time; district championships won by the girls' golf and boys' track teams; an impressive production of Godspell; a National Merit Finalist - Masha Galeb - and the $1-million in scholarship money (including Bright Futures) awarded to the Class of 2003.
Principal Tina Tiede had words of praise, but also of warning.
"Deciding what you want might not be as clear as you think," she said. "You have intelligence, your values and now your diploma. So what are you going to do?"
Valedictorian Mary Wilson encouraged her peers to break the labels bestowed upon them during their high school years and have a positive effect on the world.
"Allow yourself the freedom to live past limitations," Mary said. "Class of 2003, this is my challenge to you: Never settle for less than your full potential."
