By Geena Monahan—For the North Star Reporter
On Thursday, June 5, Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School were reminded that through their unique education, there is no goal that they cannot achieve.
There were 220 graduates in the Class of 2025 who received diplomas from a wide swath of career program offerings, ranging from carpentry to early education, graphic communications to metal fabrication, and many others in between.
Karen Maguire, Tri-County’s superintendent-director, began by introducing herself as the “official emcee” for the evening, remarking on the rigorous coursework that Tri-County students must complete over their four years in high school. To Maguire, vocational schools in Massachusetts are a “cornerstone of innovation, skill development and community strength.”
“You are equipped with the experience and the practical knowledge that is highly valued in today’s workforce,” said Maguire. “Vocational education breaks the myth that success only comes from one type of education or career path. Instead, it celebrates diverse talents and offers pathways to meaningful, rewarding careers that power our economy and enrich our community.”
Jacqueline Mullen, class president, sang the National Anthem, followed by Salutatorian Conor Cadorette leading the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance. Mullen went on to give a speech later where she shared her journey with childhood brain cancer and how she has been in remission for 13 years.
Surviving cancer is something that Mullen said has given her a passion for life and intense motivation to excel. She credits her unique experience with forming an attitude towards life of “why not?” and shared that with her classmates as something to remember as they make their way out into the real world.
“Whatever our individual futures hold after today, we have been given opportunities no other high school students have,” said Mullen. “Our hands-on training in combination with our academic education will help us excel in wherever life leads us.”
North Attleborough’s own Christina Abdel Alrahim was named the Class of 2025’s valedictorian, earning the honor by achieving the highest grade point average while completing Tri-County’s medical assisting program. Alrahim will attend Western New England University in the fall, where she will pursue a degree in pharmaceutical science.
“In times of struggle, doubt and darkness, I hope that we can look back at our time here and allow these memories to light up new paths and new roads that we will explore,” said Alrahim. “No matter what the future looks like for you, I have faith in you all.”
Another North Attleborough resident recognized for their achievements while at Tri-County was Jack Simmons, who was named the winner of the Outstanding Vocational Student award. Simmons successfully completed the carpentry program while maintaining a 3.95 GPA, and will go on to study criminal justice at Westfield State University in the fall.
In a statement put out by Tri-County, Simmons was described as a “standout student who has earned high praise from his teachers for being mature, personable and resilient, with an impressive résumé to match.”
Cadorette took to the main stage one more time before the evening ended to lead his fellow graduates in the cap toss, moving his tassel from right to the left before over 200 navy blue caps were thrown into the air.
“I hope that you will be called back to Tri-County,” said Principal Dana Walsh. “Tri-County will always be the place that welcomes you back and reminds you that as far as you go, as much as you grow, and as often as you change, you have roots here. Congratulations.”