Turned Tassels and Tossed Caps: FCHS Seniors Close Chapter on High School Era
- Terri Carter
- May 20
- 4 min read
Even though football season is long over, the Franklin County High School stadium was packed last Friday night for a different kind of victory. As the senior class took their final walk across the field to receive their diplomas, they marked the culmination of four years of dedication, hard work, and unforgettable memories.
As the seniors settled into their seats beneath the glow of the stadium lights, the ceremony commenced with the Pledge of Allegiance and an official welcome speech, both led by the senior class officers. Guiding their peers through this special evening were Senior Class President Kristoffer Hawkersmith, Vice President Kane Hawkersmith, Class Secretary Lillian Signs, Class Treasurer Catherine Hanger, and Sergeant-at-Arms Zoey Miller.
The students extended a warm welcome to all in attendance, setting the stage for the night’s celebrations. They then introduced Franklin County High School Principal, Jeannie Miller, recognizing her leadership and dedication to their journey.
Principal Miller warmly welcomed the crowd, expressing her heartfelt gratitude for everyone who came to celebrate the graduating class. She introduced the Franklin County School Board members in attendance, along with the administrative team and the dedicated faculty and staff of Franklin County High School. She also took a moment to recognize the educators who had guided and supported the students before they even reached high school, highlighting the impact of their dedication.
Turning her attention to the families, she acknowledged the unwavering commitment of parents and guardians, whose encouragement and sacrifices had helped shape the graduates' success. She reminded the students that their journey to this milestone was not one they traveled alone—it was made possible by the love, guidance, and support of many.
Miller recognized the seniors who had enlisted in military service, and the early graduate who was already serving in the United States Air Force, Landon Sanson. She also noted that the class of 2025 had received over $2.6 Million in scholarships this year.
She then welcomed the class salutatorian, Bobbie McGee Moore, to the stage, recognizing her academic achievements and dedication. This fall, McGee will begin her studies at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, where she plans to pursue a double major in Literature and Biology. With aspirations of earning a doctorate degree, she is determined to continue her education and make a meaningful impact in her chosen fields.
The salutatorian shared heartfelt gratitude for her classmates and the incredible journey they had traveled together. She expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to celebrate this milestone alongside the friends and familiar faces who had shaped her years in high school. Reflecting on the memories made and the bonds formed, she recognized the experience as one of the greatest privileges of her life, cherishing the moments that had brought them to this point.
“From excelling at sports to discovering a love for theater, our class is full of aspiring minds and overwhelming talent.”, stated Moore. “I want you all to be proud of yourselves because you truly deserve it. We have all come so far and achieved so many things. And it’s only up from here. The future holds no bounds.”
Moore concluded her speech by expressing heartfelt gratitude to those who had guided and supported her along the way, from family and teachers to lifelong friends who had played a role in her success.
Senior Class Valedictorian Avi Patel then took the stage, ready to address his classmates one final time. This fall, he will begin his next chapter at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, where he plans to major in Neuroscience.
Patel opened his speech with sincere gratitude, inviting parents and guardians to stand and be recognized for their unwavering love, commitment, and support throughout the years. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation for the faculty and staff at Franklin County High School, acknowledging their dedication in guiding students toward this milestone.
Reflecting on his high school journey, Patel described it as a road leading to a greater beginning, emphasizing that these formative years had prepared them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With optimism and confidence, he encouraged his classmates to embrace their futures, carrying the lessons and memories of high school with them as they step into the next phase of their lives.
“As we move forward, it’s important to remember that we’re not just leaving high school behind us.”, stated Patel. “But we’re taking everything we’ve learned with us. From the obstacles we’ve faced to the growth we’ve experienced, we’ve all contributed to the future we begin to create tonight by walking across this stage.”
Reflecting on his four years as a tennis player, Patel fondly recalled the lessons learned, the challenges overcome, and the memories made along the way. He reassured his classmates that while stepping into the unknown may feel daunting, the future is filled with endless opportunities waiting to be embraced. With optimism and confidence, he encouraged them to forge their own paths, shaping a future that truly reflects who they are and all they aspire to become.
One by one, the seniors proudly crossed the stage, marking the culmination of their high school journey as they received their diplomas. Principal Jeannie Miller then took the podium to deliver the official announcement, declaring the class of 2025 graduates of the State of Tennessee, and the graduates turned their tassels.
As caps soared, Franklin County High School’s graduating class embraced a moment they’ll never forget. Proud families rushed the field, celebrating the hard work, dedication, and achievements that brought their students to this milestone. With diplomas in hand and a world of possibilities ahead, these graduates are ready to step boldly into the future. Though high school is now behind them, the friendships forged, lessons learned, and memories made will forever be a part of who they are.
