Reed Ross Classical School graduates Class of 2025; principal cites more than $1 million in scholarships

Reed Ross Classical School held its 40th commencement ceremony honoring the Class of 2025, where Principal Dr. Tyson Johnson pronounced the graduates and said students had secured more than $1,000,000 in scholarship funding.

The ceremony showcased student achievements across academics, career-technical education and the arts. Dr. Tyson Johnson said the class had “answered the call” academically and emphasized the community contributions and credentials students earned, including career-readiness certifications and college-level coursework.

Principal Dr. Tyson Johnson opened the remarks by welcoming guests and spotlighting accomplishments across the graduating class. “This is more than a graduation ceremony. It is a celebration of your growth, your grit, your grace, and everything you have accomplished along the way,” Dr. Johnson said. He highlighted Advanced Placement test participation, college-level classes, CTE certifications earned by several students and scholarship awards totaling more than $1,000,000.

Students and groups were recognized for arts and extracurricular achievements: orchestra and band members, theater performers, visual arts winners at the Cumberland County Schools juried art show and dance performers were all named by the principal. Dr. Johnson also noted student-led community service, including a National Honor Society food drive, and said the class had dedicated community service hours (the transcript’s exact figure for total hours was unclear).

Salutatorian Krista Scriven and valedictorian Kayla Bannister delivered addresses reflecting on community and perseverance. “We’ve discovered that success is not solely measured by an individual's accomplishments, but by the strength and the support we offer one another,” Salutatorian Krista Scriven said. Valedictorian Kayla Bannister told classmates their resiliency had brought them to commencement and urged them to carry lessons of determination and perspective into the future.

Musical performances were provided by the Reed Ross Classical Melody Club and The Voices; students were called individually to the stage as candidates for graduation. After diplomas were conferred, the presiding official said, “By the power vested in me by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction and Cumberland County Schools, I now pronounce you graduates of Reed Ross Classical School. Graduates, you may turn your tassels.” Guests were asked to remain seated until graduates exited and were reminded that family members were not permitted in the graduate holding area.

Logistics noted during the ceremony included a statement that portraits would be made available for viewing and purchase through the photographer’s website about 10 business days after the event. The ceremony also named members of the Cumberland County Board of Education who were recognized on stage, and several staff and student leaders who participated in the program.

The ceremony was primarily ceremonial and celebratory; no policy votes or district-level decisions were taken during the event.