Alfred E. Beach High graduates more than 200; principal Craig Daughtry honored

Alfred E. Beach High School graduated the Class of 2025 in a commencement ceremony that included student speeches, an Educate Chatham Foundation award presentation and public recognition of Principal Craig Daughtry's service to the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System.

The ceremony opened with the presentation of colors, the national anthem and the pledge of allegiance. Salutatorian Juliana Antipolo and valedictorian Kruthark Patel delivered addresses to classmates and attendees.

The event featured several community recognitions and announcements. Principal Craig Daughtry said the graduating class collectively earned $1,500,000 in academic scholarships and listed career and credential achievements among graduates. Daughtry also was recognized for his years of service to the school; board representatives and district leaders presented an award honoring his leadership.

Juliana Antipolo, the class salutatorian, reflected on her personal journey after moving to the United States and thanked counselors and family for support. "I didn't have to carry it all alone," Antipolo said, describing how school counselors helped her through a difficult transition.

Valedictorian Kruthark Patel recounted moving to the U.S. in 2021 and the process of finding community at Beach High. "Belonging doesn't happen all at once," Patel said, urging classmates to value small acts of kindness and the relationships that built their high school experience.

The Educate Chatham Foundation presented the senior-class-selected "most inspirational educator" award, accompanied by a $1,000 grant for the recipient's classroom. Idelle Bills Boughs, representing the foundation, presented the award to Beverly Lawton.

During the ceremony an official certification was read, stating that the students present had "successfully completed the requirements for graduation for the state of Georgia and the Savannah-Chatham County Board of Education." Graduates were then instructed to move their tassels from right to left and recite the Beach High School alumni oath led by Dr. Willis Blake.

Daughtry closed his remarks by addressing the graduates and the school community: "It has been an honor to serve as your principal for the last 4 years," he said.

The program concluded with alumni and student rites of passage, an alumni oath and the singing of the school alma mater.