LYNN — Lynn City Hall Auditorium was filled with family and friends Thursday afternoon for the Fecteau-Leary Jr./Sr. High School graduation.
Fecteau-Leary Vice Principal Timothy Burt kicked things off, welcoming the students, families, friends and guests to the graduation.
“It’s wonderful to see everyone here today gather to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of the Fecteau-Leary Class of 2025. I want to begin by saying how proud we are of each of you. Many of you have faced and overcome tremendous challenges to reach this point and important milestone,” Burt said.
He told the seniors that today was about them and that they should be proud of what they did to be there.
“You did it. You did it with the help and support of your families, caregivers and the Fecteau-Leary staff,” he said. Burt then took a moment to acknowledge the staff, calling them a vital part of the student’s success.
Before introducing the speakers, Burt recognized Deputy Superintendent Debra Ruggiero, who is retiring.
“You have touched the lives of thousands of students, families and educators throughout the City of Lynn. Your legacy is one of compassion, leadership and unwavering commitment. Though we will certainly miss your guidance and support, we know you are looking forward to the next chapter, especially spending more time with your grandchildren,” Burt said.
After recognizing Ruggiero and gifting her with flowers, two cornhole boards designed by Fecteau-Leary students, and chairs for her grandchildren, Mayor Jared C. Nicholson gave his remarks.
“It is truly an honor to extend our congratulations to the graduates of the Fecteau-Leary 2025 class… I’m always so thrilled that we’re able to do one of the graduations here in Lynn City Hall… I think it’s meaningful because it’s a symbolic representation of the idea that the entire city is invested in your success… We’re so proud of all the hard work and effort and sacrifice that got you here, and we’re so excited for all the opportunities that that’s opening up for you,” Nicholson said.
Superintendent Dr. Evonne S. Alvarez spoke next, thanking those who made the graduation possible.
“As we gather to celebrate your graduation, we reflect not only on the years of learning and work but also what brought you here, the unique journey that makes this milestone so deeply meaningful… To each of our scholars, our leaders, our change makers, go forward with courage, carry the lessons of the journey and the pride of this community with you,” Alvarez said.
The keynote speaker for the evening was Deputy Superintendent Maricel Goris, who said she was honored to speak to the graduating class.
“I know that this road at times may have been rocky, yet each and every one of you has overcome battles, obstacles and hardships to get to this stage… You have learned that although difficult and challenging to execute, boundaries and limits are important and necessary to reach your goals. You learned that every adult is human and makes mistakes, and regardless of how unfair life can be at times, your voice always matters. And recognize the importance of it to make life more just for those that come behind you,” Goris said.
Guidance Counselor Erica Campbell then presented scholarships to these students: Willow Casey, Cory LeBrasseur, and Yahzmyn Gonzalez Khun.
The final speaker was Principal Maura Durgin-Scully.
“Before we close this chapter, I’d like to take a moment while I do still have your attention for one last reflection. Our journey together has been nothing short of extraordinary. It has been marked by challenges and triumphs, growth and resilience, and alternative education like Fecteau-Leary isn’t just a different path to education,” Durgin-Scully said. “It’s a place where voices are heard, individuals are honored and strength is forged through perseverance. At Fecteau-Leary, every student’s story matters; every success is hard-earned and deeply meaningful. It never mattered how you came to us. What mattered was that you found us.”
Students then received their diplomas and celebrated their final moments as high school seniors before turning their tassels and tossing their caps.
