Starting September, every high school senior begins with a painstaking journey, from meeting an advisor, to building a resume, to finalizing essays and wrapping up their four years of high school experience, and going through the meticulous process of applying to colleges. And all of us have anticipated acceptances from our dream colleges for weeks and even months. This is the time of year when we are the most anxious about getting to know the results. When we get accepted, our happiness is measureless and abounding. For many of us, it is inconsiderate to not get accepted based on our performances, not getting in could be a hit to our heart. But take heart, slow down, and gleefully win the race! Along with our great time and efforts, the FDR staff has promoted our academic purpose in various different ways by advising and educating. As we end this school year with the long, awaited commencement ceremony, let us also be thankful to those who have encouraged us and made this moment come alive. Here are a few words of encouragement from some of our FDR staff members, who have worked hard, appreciated our efforts this academic year: 

“Congratulations to all the graduating seniors for your perseverance and initiative! We are excited to hear about the connections, friends, and achievements you will make when you come back to visit FDR.” 

~ Mr. Tian

“To the Class of 2022,

Here’s some life advice from me with the assistance and inspiration of some Disney Classics:

Always remember to 

Let it Go

Because Faith, Trust, and a little bit of Pixie Dust can lead you to 

Infinity and Beyond!

So Just Keep Swimming,

Whistle While You Work, 

And Believe in Happy Endings!

A special shout out to the Calculus students who pushed themselves beyond their limits. And to the members of the Honor Society who worked to serve our community both inside and outside of school— thank you!

Congratulations to all and Best Wishes!”

~ Ms. Acciarito

“Dear Class of 2022, 

Congratulations on successfully persevering and succeeding this school year as we made steps to return to a school environment pre-COVID. I am thankful to have had you as my students. As you continue forward, the unknown can be scary. Stay positive, stay motivated, and remain driven in the face of adversity and uncertainty. And above all else, stay compassionate. Thank you!”

~ Ms. Sivaprakash

“Congratulations class of 2022! You have persevered through some of the most difficult turning points in global history, and the future is all uphill from here. I wish you nothing but the best in life. There are infinite opportunities that await you, so be open to them. Stay focused on your goals, and don’t give up when life gets difficult. 

Here is a poem I have always loved, affirming the interconnectedness we have with nature, and the power of nature that lies within each of us:

Remember that you are Water,

Cry. Cleanse. Flow. Let Go.

Remember that you are Fire,

Burn. Tame. Adapt. Ignite.

Remember that you are Air,

Observe. Breath. Focus. Decide.

Remember that you Earth,

Ground. Build. Produce. Give.

Remember that you are Spirit,

Connect. Listen. Know. Be Still.”

~ Ms. Imbemba

“It’s been an unconventional journey to graduation but here you are. I hope that if the last 4 years have taught you anything, it is that life does not always go as planned. Remember this lesson as you move on to this next phase in your life. Don’t get caught up on who you think you need to be. Live your life to become the person you are meant to be. This is your time to find out who that person is. Take chances, try new things, meet new people. Say yes to opportunities and no to self-doubt. Be kind to others, but most of all, be kind to yourself. You’ve already conquered every challenge life has thrown your way, so live your life knowing every moment, good or bad, just brings you closer to the amazing life you were meant to live. You got this.”

~ Ms. Rabassa

“Class of 2022,

Through a year of ups and downs, it is important to reflect and appreciate the effort put in and growth that resulted. I am proud to have seen so many of you overcome obstacles and become stronger as a result.

As you move forward, keep in mind the words of Isaac Newton: “If I have been able to see further, it was only because I stood on the shoulders of giants.”

Be collaborative, don’t be afraid to admit failure or ask for help and make sure you advocate for yourself.

Thank you for learning alongside me this year!”

~ Mr. Hans

“It might sound like a cliche but there’s truth in the saying—“Anything is possible if you believe in yourself!!!”  Never in a million years would I think running would become such a passion. If you said to me, two years ago, that Mr. Schmude of 2022 would be running marathons……I would tell you that you’re crazy!!!!!  Hard work, perseverance and a strong belief in oneself will inevitably lead to a more well-rounded, successful individual.”

~ Mr. Schmude

“You are the writer of your story.  You choose what happens, otherwise it’s someone else’s story.”

~ Ms. Intravai

It has not been an easy high school career, thanks to Covid, but I leave you with a favorite Ralph Waldo Emerson quote! “When it is dark enough, you can see the stars.” All the best to the graduating Cougars.

~Sully