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Coosa Valley Academy graduates celebrate at the end of the school’s commencement ceremony on May 18. (REPORTER PHOTOS/KEITH MCCOY)

HARPERSVILLE – Coosa Valley Academy’s 45th graduating class was honored at a commencement ceremony on Thursday, May 18, in the school gymnasium.

Don Greene, mayor of Harpersville and CVA Board Chairman, welcomed those in attendance.

“These kids have accomplished a lot in their 12 years here,” Greene said and noted the school’s recent volleyball state championship—the school’s first.

Headmaster Pam Lovelady recognized board members and retiring teacher Janet Smith.

Lovelady then talked about all 31 graduates individually, with memories at their time of the school and characteristics she associates with them.

“I have known these graduates for many years, and I love them very much,” Lovelady said. “Each one has a special twist that God has given them and given us.”

The guest speaker was Pastor Jason Allums of Vincent Revival Center, who ensured the graduates that “God has a purpose” for their lives.

Allums told the graduates that there will be more at stake in the next level of their lives.

“What you do with this season of your life determines your promotion in life,” said Allums, who also encouraged the graduates to invest in healthy relationships, work hard, be resilient and stay in God’s will.

In her salutatory address, Sarah Warren thanked all those who helped the graduates reach this point.

“This moment is definitely a bittersweet one,” Warren said. “None of us will ever forget the moments we shared.”

Special awards presented included Outstanding Cheerleader or Dance Team Member to Rebekah Tinsley, Outstanding Female Athlete to Warren, Outstanding Male Athlete to Tanner Temple and Alumni Scholarship to Tinsley.

Both of the Class of 2017’s valedictorians, Tanner Brooks and Madelyn Horne, addressed those in attendance.

“In the end, all that matters is that you are happy and you are proud of what you have done,” Horne said.

Brooks said the most important lesson the graduates have learned is the importance of working together, and thanked those who have helped them.

“We wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for our teachers,” he said.

To see more photos, visit ShelbyCountyPhotos.com.

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