In a decision made long before the snow days of winter extended the school year well into June, crews repaved Route 209 outside Panther Valley Junior-Senior High School this week.

It turned out to be just one of the many new roads that led from the campus Thursday night.

For the Panther Valley Class of 2018, it was the beginning of life after high school as they accepted their diplomas and graduated from high school.

“These past four years are some of the best years of our lives, and we will live with the memories from them for as long as we live,” said Cordell Brettle, class valedictorian.

The young men dressed in black, and young women in yellow shined beneath the lights on the stage at Panther Valley Junior-Senior High School.

Brettle told his classmates to embrace change, even though it may be difficult. The challenge, he said, is worth it in the end.

He offered a profound quote from an unlikely source, the comic book hero Green Arrow.

“An arrow can only be shot by pulling it backward. So when life is dragging you back with difficulties, it means that it’s going to launch you into something great. So just focus, and keep aiming.”

Brettle was recognized with the John F. and Angelina Cerchiaro Memorial Scholarship, as well as the Board of Directors: Superintendent’s Leadership Scholarship.

Salutatorian Sarah Markovich used her speech to encourage her classmates to be themselves. She talked about important lessons that could at times be heard, but ultimately made her a better person along the way.

“(Panther Valley) has taught us that we should always expect the unexpected. It is now teaching us our easiest lesson: to let go.”

Markovich took home the Philomena G. Fauzio Memorial Scholarship, as well as an award from the school board.

Principal Joseph Gunnels recognized the class officers, student council representatives, National Honor Society members and the top 10 students in the class.

Class President Kayleia Polanco welcomed guests, led the ceremonial hat toss and performed the ceremonial passing of the colors to Erica Tout, president of the Class of 2019.

Graduate Benitta Bruce sang the national anthem.

Superintendent Dennis Kergick challenged the class to not only be dreamers, but follow those dreams. He told them that they will inherit the challenges created by his generation, and will have to figure out how to solve them.

He left them with four tenets: do not take anything or anyone for granted; always be honest, sincere and good; find a passion and a purpose; and work hard, because nothing worthwhile comes easy.

“F. Scott Fitzgerald sums up these rules succinctly: ‘I hope you have a life you’re proud of. If you find that you’re not, I hope that you have the strength to start over again,’” Kergick said.