WINDSOR
New York City, of all things, was the topic of Windsor High School Principal Daniel Soderholm’s message to the Class of 2016.

He pointed out that beginning in the early 20th century is when skyscrapers began to rise in that city.

“There’s something unique about New York … it’s geology,” he said, pointing out that the tall buildings in Manhattan are found in the southern end and midtown. That’s because they’re anchored in the bedrock, which enables the skyscrapers “to achieve great heights.”

In comparison, the seniors received a solid basis in life through their education.

“Trust that foundation that’s made for achieving greatness,” he said.

Earlier, the co-valedictorians offered thoughts to their classmates.

“We would not be where we are without one another,” said Emilia Tumminello, adding her appreciation of the teachers and — in an emotional moment — her closest friend. Parents and other loved ones were also thanked.

“We move on to make our marks,” she said. “Thank those who’ve left their marks on you.”

During her remarks, Leann Tengowski quoted from the song “Closing Time:” “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”

Julia Perkins, chairwoman of the Isle of Wight County School Board, said there was probably no one in the building “whose heart is not swelling with pride.”

She looked at the seniors and said, “This is a very special moment in your lives…you are our future.”

Superintendent Dr. James Thornton recited several statistics relating to the class, such as the number of graduates (101) or percentage of graduates going onto a two- or four-year college (66 percent).

“But you are so much more than a statistic,” he said.

Further, Thornton proposed that rather than asking themselves what to they want to be, the seniors should instead ask “What problem do you want to solve?”