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By Lauren Kendall, Obion County Schools Communications Director
Obion County, TN – South Fulton High School and Obion County Central High School celebrated their graduation ceremonies on Friday, May 17th. The day was marked by joyful occasions that not only recognized student achievements but also demonstrated the strong community that surrounds the Obion County School System.
The graduation at SFHS commenced at 5:30 PM with Laura Pitts, the principal, acknowledging the students’ diverse accomplishments. These included certificates in health science, high ACT scores, organization and sports achievements, recognitions for those joining the military and more. The audience was then treated to speeches by Valedictorian Emmalee Lattus and Salutatorian Daniel Pitts, who reflected on their class’s journey and future aspirations.
Coach Charles Seratt, a retired SFHS teacher, served as the guest speaker, sharing inspiring words with the graduates. As the ceremony progressed, students walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, culminating in the traditional tassel switch and cap toss, officiated by Tim Watkins, Director of Obion County Schools.
A noteworthy logistical feat followed the SFHS ceremony, as board members and district officials were efficiently escorted by the Obion County Sheriff’s Office to OCCHS for the next graduation. The transition was smoothly coordinated with assistance from the South Fulton Police Department, Troy Police Department, and the Tennessee Highway Patrol, ensuring timely attendance at OCCHS.
At OCCHS, the evening event began with Principal Corey Essary celebrating each graduate’s individual and collective achievements, including military commitments, CTE certifications, atheletic achievements, high academic scores and so many more. Following this period of recognition, Valedictorian Allie Lamb and Salutatorian Norah Kendall addressed their peers, setting a reflective and motivational tone.
The diploma ceremony was managed by Assistant Principals Chris Lownsdale, who announced the graduates, and Brenna Ray, who helped hand off diplomas to the graduates as they crossed the stage. Director Tim Watkins provided the closing remarks, congratulating the graduates and overseeing the final tassel ceremony and the exuberant cap toss, symbolizing the graduates’ readiness to embark on new adventures.
The ceremony included a light-hearted moment when it was revealed afterwards that graduates had playfully slipped paperclips into Principal Essary’s hand during their handshake, adding a memorable twist to the proceedings.