Martin High School class of 2025 celebrates growth and support at graduation ceremony

The Arlington Independent School District held a significant graduation ceremony for Martin High School's Class of 2025 on June 4, 2025. The event celebrated the achievements of the graduates while reflecting on their journey through high school.

The ceremony began with a heartfelt speech from a student representative, who posed a thought-provoking question: "Are we proud of who we've become?" This inquiry set the tone for a reflective address that acknowledged both the triumphs and challenges faced by the graduating class over the past four years. The speaker emphasized the importance of growth, stating that becoming is a continuous process filled with both joyful and difficult experiences. They highlighted memorable moments, such as school spirit events and personal milestones, while also recognizing the struggles some students faced, including loss and mental health challenges.

The speaker encouraged their peers to embrace the unpredictability of life and to view failures as essential components of personal development. They concluded with a message of pride in the ongoing journey of becoming, rather than a fixed state of achievement.

Following this address, senior class president Carlin Alfred took the stage to express gratitude to the supportive community surrounding the graduates. Alfred acknowledged the pivotal roles played by family, friends, and educators in shaping the students' experiences. The speech underscored themes of resilience, determination, and the importance of maintaining curiosity as they transition into adulthood.

Alfred's remarks resonated with the audience, reinforcing the collective spirit of the graduating class and their shared experiences. The ceremony concluded with a sense of accomplishment and optimism for the future, as graduates prepared to embark on the next chapter of their lives.