Clyde sends off 155 grads

CLYDE — Clyde High School's Class of 2023, in recent years, has endured its share of hard times, like the pandemic. But now, they're ready to take on their futures. In about an hour, more than 150 students became Clyde-Green Springs Schools' newest graduates during the high school's 150th commencement ceremony on a sunny Sunday afternoon. In their speeches, the class's three valedictorians thanked loved ones and district staff for their support, recalled their favorite high school memories and spoke words of encouragement. "From playing late-night tennis under the lights to going to McDonald's after every school event, I will cherish the memories I've made in Clyde," co-valedictorian Rebecca Clapp said. "However, life doesn't stop here: Graduation is the beginning of a new chapter. The world is in front of us and the opportunities are endless." Co-valedictorian Grace Murphy said advice she was given in high school is taking hold. "There's a lot about life we cannot control, but we do have the ability to make our own decisions," Murphy told her classmates. "I've begun to realize that this is my life, just as each and every one of you have your own lives. It's a scary thought that ultimately, it's up to us now, but that's not to say we won't have new mentors and friends along the way to offer us support." A new tradition that began this year allowed school district staff to hand diplomas to their graduating children. About 10 families participated and shared heartfelt hugs. Clyde's Class of 2023 also included four exchange students from Thailand, Africa, Brazil and Germany. Before graduates flipped their tassels and sang the alma mater, Clyde-Green Springs Schools superintendent Lucas Messer told graduates to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. "I cannot foresee how your next chapters will go, but I can tell you this: You will feel uncomfortable during seasons of your life," he said. "But this discomfort will lead to growth if you allow it to. These challenging times have allowed you to see the bigger picture and make decisions with a clearer vision much easier down the road. "You rose to the occasion, time and time again, in the face of challenges and I know I'm not alone in my admiration for what you have accomplished," Messer said. Clyde High School Class of 2023 • 151 graduates • Top academic students: Valedictorians Rebecca Clapp, Grace Murphy and Alexia Young and salutatorian Bryson Schade _ Reach reporter Caitlin Nearhood at nearhood@sanduskyregister.com and follow her on Twitter @CaitlinNearhood