Opp High School held graduation ceremonies for its 2023 senior class on Thursday 25th May. The ceremony was conducted by Caroline Courson as the valedictorian and John Helms as the salutatorian.
Courson was born to Ben as well as Elizabeth Courson and granddaughter of Grady Lanier. She has a sibling, Anna Kate Courson, and one brother, Cale Courson.
Helms was born to Joe Helms and Bonni Helms. Helms has a brother named Sam Helms.
The two felt honored with the award after having put in an enormous amount of time and effort at school.
“Representing my class of seniors as valedictorian is a sign that your hard work will be rewarded in the end. I had this dream for myself back when I was in primary school However, I haven’t always believed that it would succeed. Even when I was feeling demotivated I pushed myself to do my best in every aspect of my school work” Courson said.
“I am extremely proud of being salutatorian for my class because it’s an honor I’ve worked for a long time. I have put a lot of effort in Opp High School and my academics. The kind of feedback is an amazing feeling,” Helms stated.
They’ve decided to pursue careers in line with what they’ve been able to enjoy as children.
“I will begin college in Auburn University in the fall and am pursuing a degree in Poultry Science. I picked this subject because I have chickens of my own which I’ve kept. I wanted to select something that would help me get toward my next goal, which is the vet college,” Courson said.
“I will enroll at in the University of South Alabama and major in Electrical Engineering. I’ve been working to the fullest within the Opp City Schools IT department over the last two years. I discovered the physical aspect of technology as I started,” Helms said.
As students of Opp They were thrilled being part of the school’s community and family.
“The most enjoyable aspect of being an undergraduate at the high school I attended was having an entire town who supports you and the schools,” Courson said. “I had the opportunity to develop friendships with my fellow students as well as teachers. Go Bobcats,” Helms said.
While the time they spent as Bobcats ended but the two will treasure the memories they created as they begin their journey in adulthood.
“The most I’ll regret most from being a student in Opp High School will be being able be a softball player with some of my closest friends. I’m looking forward meeting people from all over the world as I enter life. I’d like to say thank you to everyone who have been willing to go the extra mile to support me in my quest for success. They are family members teachers, friends, and my church family who have been a part of my life,” Courson said.
“I will be missing the familiar atmosphere of living in a city which is close to my home. I’m looking forward beginning my own journey with the goal of laying solid foundations to last my entire life,”” Helms stated.
The future looks bright for everyone with hopes and dreams becoming reality in the end of this year.
“In 5-10 years from now, I envision myself in the position of a college student or a graduate in vet college. It is my hope that I will get married and have the opportunity to start with my children soon,” Courson said. “I would like to work for a firm or start my own company in my industry. I want to be a good father and husband as well,” Helms said.
The article Courson, Helms top of class Opp high School graduates appeared at The Andalusia Star-News.
