Congratulations to our newest alumni, the Hyde Schools Class of 2012. Ninety-three students graduated on Hyde’s campuses in Bath, Maine, and Woodstock, Connecticut. We are proud of what our students have accomplished, and eager to see them continue on to lead lives of integrity and meaning.
Graduation represents both an ending and a new beginning. At Hyde, it’s also a time to make a statement of conscience. Speaking at commencement is one of the key features of Hyde’s character-development curriculum, and is the culmination of a student’s years of work at the school. Every graduating senior gives a two-minute speech that gives thanks, honors his or her family, and expresses hope for the future.
“The speech serves as a benchmark for his or her life,” says Head of School Laura Gauld. “Graduation is truly a time to enjoy the fruits of our labor as the students transform from students participating in a rigorous education to strong, graceful leaders. Watching returning alums share their journey and seeing generations of families basking in the gratitude is truly overwhelming.”
Hyde-Bath graduate Laughlynn Bragg spoke about learning the batik process for dyeing fabric in art class, and how her curiosity for the projects taught her confidence. “New beginnings only bring me further exploration, knowledge, success, failure, struggle, triumph, love, pain and creation. I look at my future with a smile… I leave Hyde with a purpose and the tools to help me discover my potential.”
We hope you’ll enjoy learning more about this exceptional group of students, and how Hyde prepares students to succeed in college and for the rest of their lives.
At each graduation, Hyde students write notes to their families, thanking them for the opportunity to attend Hyde and recognizing them for their commitment to our Family Education Program, which allows parents to be partners in education and growth.
Dad, you inspire me with your principled life, resilience, loyalty and integrity. You have been the moral compass for our family, leading us in the right direction no matter how difficult it may be, never making excuses or taking the easy way out. —Lori Allen ’11
Mom, you have modeled the type of woman I strive to become and have been a key figure in my growth within our family and within myself. I am incredibly thankful for you, for how strong our relationship has become, and for knowing that I can always count on you. —Sarah DeNunzio ’11
Mom, you are my beacon of hope guiding me towards the life I know I am destined to live. Watching you jump into leadership throughout the Hyde process was inspiration for me to do the same. I love you. —Alex Biedermann ’11
Pop, You have grown in your wisdom and strength throughout your process here, and I have drawn much of my strength from you and your accomplishments. —Jenna Keith ’11
Listen to what some of our exceptional seniors had to say at graduation about how their Hyde educations prepared them to succeed in college and in life.
