🎓 Class of 2025: A Bittersweet Farewell to Our Seniors

The end of a school year is always emotional, but when it’s the final chapter for our seniors, the moment carries even more weight, memories, and meaning. The Burns Sci-Tech Class of 2025 closed out their K-12 journey with a week filled with celebration, reflection, and heartfelt goodbyes.

We kicked off the celebrations with our Legacy Walk and Boo Hoo Breakfast, two of our most heartfelt traditions. The morning began as our seniors took one final walk through the school, retracing the steps of their childhood. As they passed familiar hallways, classrooms, the cafeteria, and the playground, current students lined the halls, cheering them on with admiration and excitement. It was a touching moment, one that beautifully connected our past, present, and future students and reminded us of the strong, supportive community that defines Burns Sci-Tech.

Following the walk, families gathered for the Boo Hoo Breakfast, where together we honored the graduating class with memories, smiles, and a few happy tears. The morning was full of laughter, tears, and cherished memories. A heartwarming slideshow of baby and toddler photos reminded us just how far these students have come. Parents and students shared muffins, danishes, bagels, and more, nourishing not just the body but the heart.

Each senior received their swag bags, including cozy sweatshirts with their names printed on the back. We raffled off gift bags full of donated goodies, thanks to the generous local businesses who stepped up to support so much of this special day.

The celebrations continued throughout the week:

• Monday, our National Honor Society honored its seniors with their ceremonial cords.

• Wednesday, we proudly recognized our seniors for their scholarship achievements; congratulations to Saige, RJ, Maddie, Lily, Cayanne, and Kevin!

• Thursday, several students gathered for Senior Sunset, a quiet evening of friendship and reflection.

And finally, on Saturday, the moment we’d all been waiting for, the Graduation Ceremony. The ceremony was nothing short of perfect. We were honored to have Board Chairman Albert Almalfatono and Vice Chair Roger Thayer speak to the graduating class. Their words were powerful, encouraging, and full of wisdom, reminding our seniors to embrace their journey with courage and integrity. Both leaders have long supported our students and school community, and their presence was especially meaningful.

Four students were recognized with Legacy Awards for being Burns Sci-Tech students since kindergarten: Logan Bennett, Mekayala Latham, Maely Phillips, and Logan Shepard.

Each graduate received the book Make Your Bed by Admiral William H. McRaven, a reminder of the impact small choices can have on the world. Teachers surrounded them as Mr. Hargrave read memories and personal words of wisdom submitted by those who taught and guided them throughout the years, one last, heartfelt connection between mentor and student.

Four students were also honored on our Wall of Fame for their exemplary leadership, character, and contributions: Charles Frame, Sydni Glugover, Mekayla Latham, and Kevin Thayer.

Our Valedictorian, Kevin Thayer, and Salutatorian, Sofia Perna, delivered inspiring speeches that reflected on their journeys, the friendships formed, and the bright futures ahead.

Then came the moment we’d all been waiting for. With pride, Mr. Carignan called each senior's name, and Mr. Hargrave presented them with their diploma. When the final name was read, the Class of 2025 tossed their caps into the air, marking the end of one journey and the exciting beginning of another.

Some of our graduates are heading to college, including Embry-Riddle, Daytona State College, the University of Central Florida, the University of West Florida, the University of South Florida, and Eastern Florida State College. Others will join the Navy, become firefighters, continue growing businesses they've already launched, or take time to explore the world and discover what’s next.

Whatever path they take, one thing is certain: once an Eagle, always an Eagle.

To the Burns Sci-Tech Class of 2025

We are endlessly proud of you. Your time within these walls may be ending, but you will always have a home here. We’ll be cheering you on, celebrating your victories, and standing by your side as you soar.

Congratulations, graduates. The future is yours.