Story by Jack Robinson / Photos by Mark Molesworth

After years of trial, growth and learning, more than 400 members of the class of 2025 left the halls of Staples High School Wednesday evening for the final time for the school’s 138th Commencement ceremony. During the ceremony, the graduates were treated with much pomp and circumstance. The Staples Orphenians performed the Star-Spangled Banner, and school officials such as Principal Stafford W. Thomas Jr. gave addresses.

“Today we mark the end of one voyage and the beginning of another. As we pause here in this moment, look not at where you’re going, but try to remember everything you’ve experienced to get to this very moment,” Thomas said. “This was a shared voyage through the most challenging and competitive high school in Connecticut.”

Thomas also welcomed Valedictorian Abe Lobsenz and Salutatorian Mattie Guadarrama to deliver prepared statements, where they thanked staff and reflected on the past and future potential, or even performed a live demo of a barbell lift such as Lobsenz.

“I still feel a lot like a kid, and that’s pretty comforting to me, that Staples never made me feel like I had to abandon the more childish parts of myself,” Lobsenz said. “This school has felt, and will always feel, like a second home. I attribute this in large part to the amazing teachers and administrators that often feel like both mentors and friends.”

The commencement also served as a reminder of a student who couldn’t attend the graduation. Max Harper was remembered by his classmates and staff as Principal Thomas called out his name at number 31. Guadarrama also took time in his speech to remember Harper, who died in September 2024 after an accident involving a dirt bike he was riding.

“I’d like to begin by remembering our classmate, Max, who passed away earlier this school year. It’s an upsetting and unfamiliar experience to lose someone so young, and it’s a reminder of how every moment we live should be cherished,” Guadarrama said.

Moving on past high school can be a bittersweet experience for many graduates, but the lessons they learned from Staples will stay with them for long beyond when they take their last footsteps out of the main entrance.

“My biggest lesson from Staples is to always try new things and step out of your comfort zone,” graduate Angelina Matra said. “There are so many classes and clubs I never would have expected to enjoy; I never would’ve had some of my amazing experiences if I stayed inside my comfort zone.”