Jackson-Milton graduates end decades-long tradition in gym

By Elise Mckeown Skolnick

Class of 2010 will graduate from a new building.

NORTH JACKSON — Wearing blue jay blue and big smiles, the graduating class walked across the stage of Jackson-Milton High School.

They were the last seniors to accept their diplomas in the gym at 14110 Mahoning Ave.

“My grandma and my mom both graduated from this school, and it’s a big thing for me,” said Lillian Justice, valedictorian. “It’s definitely going to be a memorable moment.”

A new building will be complete by fall.

“This is a moment I have looked forward to all year,” Justice told her fellow classmates during the commencement ceremony Friday.

Though they are the last class to graduate from the school, thousands have come before them, she said.

“Many are our parents and grandparents,“ she said. “Today, let’s make them all proud, whether they’re here in person or here in spirit.”

Justice plans to attend Youngstown State University to study business economics.

“Today is probably the most important day of your lives, one you will remember forever,” said Kirk Baker, superintendent.

In the past four years, there have been many changes in the students, Baker said.

“You are now leaving childhood and entering into the new chapter of your young adult lives.”

High school has provided them with great memories, said Katelynn Pirko, valedictorian.

It has also given some important lessons.

“I have learned that things that you want do not just get handed to you,” Pirko said.

You have to work for your dreams, she noted.

“Everyone in this room has the potential to do something great,” Pirko said.

Alyssa Chine and Jennifer Kolasky were also valedictorians.

Ahren Peplow said he is happy for a new beginning and looking forward to the future, but he will miss his friends.

“Everybody that I grew up with for the last 13 years, I’ll be leaving behind,” he said.

Peplow plans to attend YSU to study nursing, eventually becoming a nurse anesthesiologist. While at Jackson-Milton, he was involved in football, drama, student council and other activities.