Starting next week, hundreds of Lake County high school seniors will be celebrating the end of a chapter. As educators, parents, and community members, we sincerely hope that our efforts in guiding them to this moment have both prepared them well for future endeavors and are remembered fondly by this graduating class.

Each one of our graduates has a different story to tell. They come from different backgrounds, have overcome different challenges, and progressed down different paths, but they have also shared experiences that have brought them to this important moment together.

Going forward, the unique qualities and interests they have discovered, with the help of our educators, schools, and community, should guide them down successful paths.

High school graduation matters for many reasons, from securing employment, to moving on to higher education, to setting a positive role model for other family members. High School graduation is an important step in our young adults’ lives.

Whether someone wants to be a positive role model for society, their community, or younger siblings and cousins, obtaining a high school diploma is an honored achievement.

All our graduates have hopes and dreams, and a desire for success in the way they define it. As elders and mentors, who now work alongside these young adults, it’s uplifting to see the passion this generation has for making the world a better place.

Please join me in wishing the Class of 2023 success and happiness as they fulfill their future aspirations.

Brock Falkenberg is Lake County’s superintendent of schools.