May is a month of celebration, recognition and success at Niles Community Schools. As we approach this year’s commencement, we reflect on all our graduating seniors have accomplished and look forward to all that lies ahead.

NCS celebrates the variety of students’ post-graduation plans — whether it may be trade school, the armed forces, college or the workforce. Niles High School hosted an inclusive Decision Day event on May 10 to kick off the month of graduation events for seniors. We have many unique post-graduation pathways and are proud of every one of our graduating seniors.

Among those graduating are Brooke Timm, who received Calvin College’s Presidential Scholarship and the Steven Tyler Scholarship, as well as Colette Maples, who received the Sparkling Ice Flavorful Futures Scholarship, and Lexi Ziebarth, who received Grand Valley State University’s Laker Academic Scholarship as well as the Daughters of the Revolution Good Citizen Scholarship. Zoltin Kolberg earned an apprenticeship with the pipefitters, and has studied a variety of interesting careers, including those at the Elevator Repair Union.

The class of 2019’s hard work and accomplishments has not gone unnoticed. The high school held an Honors Reception on May 19 to recognize students graduating with honors as well as our salutatorian, Brenna Williams, and valedictorian, Taylor Altergott.  On May 21, NHS hosted a scholarship assembly where seniors learned if they were selected for local awards. In addition, Niles seniors received various scholarships for outstanding academic performance, community involvement and extracurricular activities.

To inspire the next generation of graduates, seniors donned their caps and gowns as they participated in our annual senior walk on May 22 at our elementary schools. The senior walk inspires our younger students as they make their way toward high school graduation, and our elementary teachers love seeing former students.

Success is our tradition at NCS, and the class of 2019 leaves a legacy that will impact all students to come. Join me in celebrating and recognizing the successes of Niles Community Schools’ graduating Class of 2019. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors and want you to know there is always a place for you in Niles.  Go Vikes!

Dr. Dan Applegate is the superintendent of Niles Community Schools.