GOFFSTOWN — Beach balls flew through the air as 291 students prepared to receive their diplomas at Goffstown High School's graduation Thursday night.

Students were encouraged by their fellow classmates to let their paths in life take a detour, and to take time to enjoy their futures.

“Living our lives can be like giving a spontaneous speech,” said Salutatorian Benjamin Henry.

Henry reminded his peers that while they may be tempted to live their lives according to a specific plan, they'll have the opportunity to digress.

“Don't be afraid to take those digressions,” he said.

Laura Raymond, who received third honors, thanked the faculty and staff of GHS.

“I cannot thank you enough for making me want to come to school every day for the past four years,” she said.

“What we will receive is more than a flimsy piece of cardstock,” Raymond told her classmates, adding that it's a solid reminder of what students have learned through their school years.

“I don't think today is the most important day of our year,” said Valedictorian Abigail Kelly.

Kelly said that perhaps it's the smaller memories students have of high school that will have the most impact, and that their experiences and friendships made high school what it was.

“That piece of paper will only mean something if those experiences were worth it,” she said.

Kelly urged graduates to slow down and take time to enjoy their lives and do what's important.

“It's the path taken to get there that's the achievement,” she said.

The evening also featured two vocal performances, one by the GHS Select Vocal Ensemble, as well as one from students Amanda Harrington and Nicholas Kasiaras.

Class officers presented the class gift to the town's Special Olympics team, Team Uncanoonuc, and several students thanked their senior class advisors, Meagan Therriault and Ryan Fitzpatrick.

Principal Frank McBride offered the graduates a top 10 list, praising students for their achievements in art, music, performing arts and sports, and named the top 20 students, as well as mentioning graduates who are joining the Armed Forces.

Class President Ashley Calder said there was a time when she didn't believe her parents when they told her she could do anything, but that changed for her as she got older. She urged students to see the endless possibilities that lie ahead, and told them to hold their memories close.

“Thank you for the time of my life,” she said.

kremillard@newstote.com