Oak Harbor celebrates 159 graduates

OAK HARBOR — A low hum emanated from Oak Harbor High School's gymnasium Sunday afternoon. Hundreds of people, including parents, family, and friends of the class of 2017, shared stories with each other. Each person could hardly contain their excitement for this year's graduating class. "Know that you are prepared and ready to move on...to find success beyond the walls of Oak Harbor High School," superintendent Guy Parmigian said as he addressed the class of 2017. "It's your turn to take a larger role in shaping the society in which we live."Guy Parmigian, the superintendent of Benton-Carroll-Salem Schools, reviews his notes as he speaks to the Oak Harbor High School class of 2017. Almost 160 students, each equipped with signature green and red caps and gowns, eagerly lined up to receive their diplomas.While each student may have different hopes, backgrounds, and goals, they all shared the same bright smile as their classmates' names were called out. They were finally ready to move on. "We are a class of passion, and it shows," senior student Summer Swope said as she spoke to her fellow classmates. "Our final year has been full of successes."Whether it was the school's boy soccer team dominating the competition, or members of the girls swim team qualifying for the state championships this year, it's clear the class of 2017 had plenty of reasons to be proud."We have made history," Swope said. Members of Oak Harbor High School's class of 2017 listen to a fellow classmate address the crowd during Sunday's graduation ceremony. But she didn't forget about their support system. Swope graciously credited the parents, teachers and friends of each graduating student."As we spread across the world we will carry the spirit of this community, this town, with us," Swope said. "It truly does take a village."Members of Oak Harbor High School's class of 2017 listen to a fellow classmate address the crowd during Sunday's graduation ceremony. Oak Harbor High School Class of 2017• Number of graduates: 159• Percent going to college: 72 percent• Percent going into the workforce: 23 percent• Percent entering the military: 5 percent• Amount of local scholarships accepted: $64,443Source: According to Benton-Carroll-Salem Schools.Members of Oak Harbor High School's class of 2017 listen to a leading member of their class address the crowd during Sunday's graduation ceremony. Reach reporter Patrick Pfanner at pfanner@sanduskyregister.com, follow him on Twitter @PatPfanner and follow the Register at Facebook.com/SanduskyRegisterMembers of Oak Harbor High School's class of 2017 react to a classmate receiving their diploma.