Celebrating the Class of 2023
Summary: In June, SPS seniors donned caps and gowns at high school graduation ceremonies across the city.
Seattle Public Schools Celebrates the Class of 2023
The Class of 2023 was in the middle of their freshman year when the world was hit with a global pandemic. After canceled dances, missed milestones, and a year of online learning, more than 3,000 Seattle Public Schools seniors donned their caps and gowns to strut across the stage and receive their high school diplomas.
The graduation ceremonies held across the district were a testament to the dedication and resilience displayed by these young individuals as they crossed the threshold into the next chapter of their lives.
The air was filled with a sense of achievement and excitement as proud families, friends, and educators gathered to witness the commencement ceremonies. The sea of caps, adorned with individual expressions of personal flair, mirrored the diverse and vibrant spirit of the graduating class.
Superintendent Brent Jones spoke at the Ingraham High School ceremony. He commended the graduates for their perseverance through unprecedented times.
“You’ve been resilient, adaptive, and powerful … you are now certified and ready to take on the next phase of your journey,” he said. “I am claiming that you will be competitive in your chosen field, that you will become great citizens with a love for service, and that you will be self-actualized. You are Seattle ready.”
The speeches delivered by students echoed themes of resilience, unity, and the power of education to shape a brighter future. At the Interagency Academy ceremony, student speaker Nay Ford shared that despite the hardships, she conquered several obstacles.
“Our mistakes make us who we are,” Ford said. “You learn and you grow with each choice you make. Everything is worth it.”
From valedictorians with perfect GPAs to student leaders who spearheaded impactful initiatives, the Class of 2023 left an indelible mark on their schools. They are now ready to soar to new heights, armed with their diplomas as proof of their tremendous achievements.
SPS TV recorded all commencement ceremonies that took place at Memorial Stadium.
The Center School Commencement Ceremony
Chief Sealth International Commencement Ceremony
Cleveland STEM Commencement Ceremony
Franklin Commencement Ceremony
Garfield Commencement Ceremony
Interagency Academy Commencement Ceremony
Rainier Beach Commencement Ceremony
Roosevelt Commencement Ceremony
West Seattle Commencement Ceremony
Ingraham and Nathan Hale held their ceremonies on their school campuses. Alan T. Sugiyama, Middle College, and Nova high schools held their graduation ceremonies at the Quincy Jones Performing Arts Center.
