John C. Schiffer Collaborative School Graduation 2024

Of the 19 students graduating from J.C. Schiffer Collaborative School, in 2024, 16 walked across the stage to receive their diplomas on Saturday, May 25, at the Early Building Auditorium at Sheridan Junior High School.

The National Anthem was sung by Laci Nissen and Molly Magera. J.C. Schiffer Principal Mike Swan gave the welcome speech and said to the students that high school graduation is a very import culminating event, and it comes with the promise of a new beginning.

He talked about taking risks

He said that as the students move into the next chapter, the skills they have learned here at Schiffer will help them to navigate positive changes that come after graduation. He added that they were all proud of all the students’ individual achievements and collective accomplishments.

Student Valedictorian Laci Nissen spoke to the class. In her opening she said, “A wise fortune cookie once told me that some people dream of accomplishments, while others stay awake and achieve them.” She had this advice for her fellow graduates.

Salutatorian, Annabelle Slaybaugh told the graduates,

The guest speaker, chosen by the students, was Rachel Schroder JCSCS Math teacher. She looked at the graduates and said, “You did it. Good job.”

She wondered what words of wisdom she should share with the graduates. She said she saw a video a few weeks ago about 60- to 90-year old people who were asked, ‘What advise would you give your younger self?’

“Turns out old people are pretty smart,” Schroder said. Not because they have a lot of knowledge, but because they have wisdom. She added that gaining wisdom is more of a lifelong process.

She added that money is important, but don’t work for money, work for memories. She also urged them to travel and make memories that way. “Know that you will fail sometimes, but don’t accept failure as the final outcome.”

There was a video presentation of the students, and the presentation of the diplomas. Each graduate turned their tassel as they left the podium, signifying moving from high school student to being a graduate.