Congratulations to the Class of 2022! Not only did these fine students graduate but they also accomplished this feat amidst a tumultuous time. And they did well. This year’s graduating class had a record 35 cum laude students. Everyone is very proud of all their accomplishments.

The last few years have been difficult. Although we still await the day of true normalcy, I think we can safely say that we have at least made it to the other side, and our seniors have certainly displayed perseverance, stamina, and adaptability.

As our valedictorian, Zachary Smith, expressed at graduation, getting to the graduation goal reflected the patience, tolerance, and kindness of the entire administration and staff at Sandy Valley.

These qualities are what I hope our students will emulate as well. Patience with others when they make wrong choices, as we have all been prone to do; tolerance when we understand that everyone has something difficult they must endure; and kindness because everyone deserves that.

But what I would most like to ask of you all is, “What are you looking for?” I undoubtably know that Sandy Valley has prepared you for your future. But when you leave our halls, what are you looking for? I have learned that we tend to find exactly what we are looking for. So, I implore you to look for the best in everything – in your classes, your work, wherever life takes you, and especially, look for the best in people.

Basically, if you go looking for trouble it will find you. I say, look for the positives and the possibilities, and you will find them. As Dr. Wayne Dyer said, “When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.”

As you leave the nest, go remembering all you left behind and look forward, anticipating all that lies ahead. Stay patient, tolerant, kind, and positive. And, I hope you find what you are looking for.

Best of luck, Class of ’22!

Go Cards!!

David Fischer

Superintendent