The celebration began Thursday with a graduation parade through the village of Mayville.

MAYVILLE — Friends, families, faculty and staff gathered on a picture-perfect evening last week to honor the Chautauqua Lake Central School Class of 2021.

The celebration began Thursday with a graduation parade through the village of Mayville. Emergency vehicles escorted the outgoing seniors to the school as they waved to community members and loved ones along the sidewalks.

The commencement ceremony began with the students processing down the footpath that winds its way to the front of the district building. As they were led to their seats by a drummer and pipers during the processional, the 83 graduates walked proudly under the American flag held in the air by two ladder fire trucks.

Secondary School Principal Rachel Curtin offered a warm welcome to guests attending the district’s 25th annual commencement ceremony. After thanking those who participated in the parade, she asked the audience to sing along to a rendition of “America the Beautiful” performed by the CLCS Chorale.

Superintendent Dr. Joshua Liddell acknowledged members of the Chautauqua Lake and Ripley boards of education and school administrators in attendance. He recognized the teachers, staff, parents and guardians who supported the graduates and then spoke to the character of the Class of 2021.

“This past year, you’ve had to be flexible, understanding, resilient and strong. These positive and constructive traits will be very important to hold on to as you transition to the next stage of your life,” said Liddell. “As you move forward, remember to stay motivated, set your goals high, focus on what is important and go confidently in whatever direction you choose.”

Corrine Kayes was presented with the Salutatorian Medallion by guidance counselor Jessica Cowan. During her address, she reflected on the many experiences she and her fellow students have had at Chautauqua Lake.

“What lies ahead of us is full of possibilities, and the experiences we have had here in this school have allowed us to choose which paths are the ones truly right for ourselves, and none of those paths will be exactly the same,” said Kayes. “Whatever your futures should hold, I wish you the best of luck in any trials you should face and the greatest determination to achieve the goals you hold in front of you now. May you be able to shape your world into whatever you want it to be.”

Board President Amy Webb presented the Class of 2021 with their diplomas on behalf of the CLCS Board of Education. She then asked the students to move their tassels from right to left as the crowd cheered and applauded.

When it was time for the graduates to come forward to receive their diplomas, Curtin encouraged them to enjoy the moment and to remember their school family is proud of them.

As the students walked across the stage, Cowan and teacher Michael Rohlin shared personal thoughts from district faculty. Each graduate received a message written by a teacher who positively impacted them during their time at Chautauqua Lake.

With everyone’s diplomas in hand, it was Hannah Weise’s turn to address her classmates. After being honored with the Valedictorian Medallion, she commended the students for overcoming adversity, especially during the pandemic.

“All of these experiences hold such potential to mold us into better versions of ourselves but require our willingness to be challenged for that to happen,” Weise said. “Fellow graduates, as you move onto your next adventure, I challenge you to take on every obstacle with the mindset that it is an opportunity to better yourself and those around you. Be brave, make wise choices, embody kindness and make the most out of every moment.”

Following the valedictorian’s address, the CLCS Chorale returned to the stage to sing a moving rendition of the song “Seasons of Love” from the musical Rent. Webb then recognized the faculty retiring this school year who will leave the district with a combined 191 years of service.