Berkley Beat 2024 Graduation Edition - Celebrating Our Seniors

Statistics

The BHS Class of 2024 received $5.8 million in scholarships.

Next year this class will be attending several public and private universities in the state including Michigan State, University of Michigan, Central Michigan, Western Michigan, Eastern Michigan, Oakland University, Wayne State, Grand Valley State, Ferris State, Northern Michigan, Kalamazoo College, Oakland Community College, College for Creative Studies, Hope College, University of Detroit Mercy and Macomb Community College.

This Class of 2024 was accepted at and/or will be attending George Washington University, Howard University, Culinary Institute of America, University of Arizona, University of Pennsylvania, Jackson State University, Savannah College of Art and Design, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Carnegie Mellon University, to name a few out-of-state institutions.

One student is entering a firefighter academy and some are entering the workforce.

Nearly 71% of the class graduated with Academic Distinction.

78% of seniors took at least one Advanced Placement - college level - class while at BHS.

A record number of the class took rigorous vocational education classes.

Nearly 20% of the class was in Band, Orchestra, Choir and/or Drama. 51% of the class participated in Athletics.

The Class of 2024 performed over 5,500 volunteer hours.

Commencement Speakers

Berkley High School graduation included words from soon-to-be graduates to their fellow classmates. Logan Field shared his speech, “Believe” and Brooke Boatmon sang an original song, “Road to Success”; Erin Kelly, Student Body Vice President, introduced the graduating class; Taryn Stone, Student Body President, introduced the National Anthem and led the switching of the tassels.

BHS Principal Andy Meloche and Superintendent Scott Francis also addressed the guests and graduates.

Here are a few selections from their speeches.

Scott Francis, Superintendent

Over the years when I share these impressive statistics and numbers with graduates, families and loved ones, I feel this tension because each and every one of you are more than a number, more than a statistic. If you were represented in one of those categories, we are very proud of you, but there are some of you who are graduating tonight that, quite frankly like me in high school, didn’t quite fit into one or most of those categories.

Maybe in those categories I didn’t capture your accomplishments or your plans for next year and that’s OK. But here are some statistics I also believe in. 100% of you made it. You graduated. And in doing so, I imagine that 100% of you overcame a setback or challenge at some point over the past four years. I imagine you will have to overcome more challenges in the future as well. Just remember you have people here who love you and support you. I also believe 100% of you have the passion to learn about something you care deeply about, whether that is at a college, trade school, in the workforce or wherever life takes you. And finally, I have no doubts that this graduating class will make a positive difference in the future and in your respective communities. And 100% of you are ready for what lies ahead.

Andy Meloche, BHS Principal

So, if there’s one thing you take away from my speech tonight, I hope it’s this. All of you, every single one is growing and developing at all times. Whether you see it on the surface or not, everything you do is a part of your evolution into becoming the best you that you can be. Be patient with yourself. Persevere through the tough times. Trust that you will become the person you want to be. I promise you that it will happen in time.

As a reminder of our belief in your future growth, I have something to send each of you home with tonight. For each and every graduate I have a small wooden keychain made from a bamboo tree. I’m hopeful that you can find a special place for it and that it will help you keep three important things in mind. First, there is a Berkley Bear head on the keychain. I put it on there to remind you of your connection to everyone here tonight. You will always be a part of the Berkley family and no one can take that away from you. Secondly, it has the words “patience, perseverance and trust” printed on it. I want you to always remember, not only your journey through the Berkley School District, but also your future journeys through life. Each of you has all of these characteristics in abundance and they will always serve you well in all your life endeavors. Lastly, and most importantly in my opinion, please don't ever forget that, although you may not always see it, you are always growing as a person.

Brooke Boatmon: Road to Success

Brooke wrote and performed an original song as her speech. Here is an excerpt of her song lyrics, below. You can watch her perform on the YouTube link.

i can’t see the future

but i know it’s surely

something special

cause we all are special

so don’t you fight

and don’t you hide

cause it’s over now and i’m all worn out as i’m fighting through my doubt

and i will succeed follow all my dreams even if i take a different route

Logan Field - Believe

Remember, it is not the destination that defines us, but the journey we take. We started this journey behind our Zoom cameras, and today we walk off this stage together. As we go forward, let’s carry the lessons we have learned, the memories we have made, and the vision of a brighter future. Let’s be compassionate and empathetic, and let’s use our knowledge, skills, and influence to uplift those around us and make a difference in our community. We will go to great places and we will accomplish great things. It’s just the beginning and I’m thankful to be sharing that with you!