Photo by Deb Gau Sergio Rafael Chilel shook hands with Principal Brian Jones as he received his graduation certificate at MATEC’S commencement ceremony. A total of 15 MATEC graduates were recognized Friday.

MARSHALL — They had shared laughs and gotten through challenges together. And as graduates of the MATEC class of 2023 prepared to go on to the next phase of their lives, commencement speakers urged them not to give up on their goals.

“Setting goals is what gives us the drive to keep going. Some of the goals we set take longer to than others to achieve, but stick to it and have faith in yourself,” Sadie Vlaminck told her classmates.

MATEC held graduation ceremonies Friday afternoon for a total of 15 students.

“We are excited to be here today, celebrating these amazing young people,” said MATEC Assistant Principal Amanda Pederson. “To be here today confirms the resilience and determination of these students as they worked hard to complete the requirements to graduate.”

In addition to receiving their graduation certificates, students were also recognized for Student of the Year awards in different academic subjects. MATEC staff and graduates also took a moment to remember graduate Dylan Deutschlander.

“Dylan graduated this fall, and then lost his battle to cancer this winter,” Pederson said. A covered chair and portrait at the ceremony paid tribute to Deutschlander.

As a student speaker, Vlaminck told graduates that the support of loved ones was something they could rely on as they moved forward in life.

“You are all extraordinary people that are destined to do great things. Don’t be afraid to go out and do your best. Go forth, and know you’re loved,” she said.

Vlaminck said being part of MATEC made a big difference in her life.

“Choosing MATEC was undoubtedly the best decision I could have made when it came to finishing high school. The teachers and administrators here have shown me nothing but kindness and support,” Vlaminck said. “I’ve made so many friendships in the short few months I spent here.”

In her keynote address to graduates, teacher Nikki Axe-Bell reflected on a quote from the poet e. e. cummings: “It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”

“MATEC students are the most courageous individuals you will ever have the privilege of knowing,” Axe-Bell said. “Our graduates have faced economic hardship, transportation barriers, loss of loved ones and many other challenges. Each graduate’s story is different, as is their timeline.”

Axe-Bell said one of the important things to remember about graduation was, “Once you graduate, no one can ever take it away from you. No matter what.”

Pederson said MATEC staff, students and community members were all proud of what the class of 2023 had accomplished.

“As you sit here, you probably have many emotions. But know this: today is a testament of what you can do,” she said.