Chelsea High School Class of 2019 receives diplomas

Published 3:38 pm Monday, June 3, 2019

HOMEWOOD – Though graduation ceremonies evoke thoughts of college scholarships and promising careers, Chelsea High School valedictorian Ellisan Caroline Burchell urged members of the school’s Class of 2019 to focus not on what they can accomplish but how they can use their gifts to help others.

“Four years ago we walked into the brick building called Chelsea High School, but we’re not the same people walking out,” Burchell said. “We’ve grown up a lot. We’ll carry that bond wherever life takes us next.”

Chelsea High School’s Commencement Exercises were held Tuesday, May 21, at Samford University’s Pete Hanna Center.

Senior Class President Kirkland Nicole Thomas welcomed attendees before Vice President Aleigh Grace Griffin led them in the Pledge of Allegiance.

James Calvin Berryhill performed The Beatles’ “In My Life,” and later, the CHS Alma Mater.

In her Salutatorian’s Address, Ally Grace Brasher thanked those who have helped the school’s about 280 graduates reach this transitional point in their lives.

“A new chapter is starting, and I think we, Chelsea High School’s Class of 2019, is ready for it,” Brasher said. “People always try to paint endings as said, but I can assure you, that is not the case.”

Principal Wayne Trucks offered some “words of wisdom” to the graduates, including, “Be yourself. You’re the only you that you’ve got.”

“We cannot express how proud we are of the effort you have put forth to be here today and accomplish something that not everyone accomplishes,” Trucks said.

To view and purchase photos from the ceremony, visit ShelbyCoutyPhotos.com.