There’s something truly special about graduation season in Cumberland County Schools. This week’s ceremonies at the Crown Coliseum marked the start of 17 total celebrations for the Class of 2025. These dignified ceremonies mark a major milestone for more than 3,700 graduates as they prepare to take the next steps toward college, the military or the workforce. Each year, as I step into that space and feel the energy of the crowd—the music, the families, the joyful anticipation—I am reminded of the power and promise of public education. It never gets old.

I’ll never forget the first time I experienced it in 2019, at the end of my first year as superintendent. That moment took my breath away then, and it still does today. Watching our graduates take those life-changing steps continues to fill me with awe and gratitude.

Our graduates are leaving with far more than a diploma. They’re leaving with skills, confidence and a readiness for the road ahead. Many are entering the workforce, prepared through rigorous coursework, career pathways and real-world experiences—including industry-recognized, portable credentials earned through our Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Others will serve our country in the military. Many will pursue higher education supported by hard-earned scholarships. Regardless of the direction, they are ready and prepared for success in college, the military or the workforce.

This commitment to educational excellence is more than a vision—it’s our mission in action. Cumberland County Schools will provide a safe, positive and rigorous learning environment to prepare lifelong learners to reach their maximum potential. We strive to ensure that every student has access to engaging learning experiences that prepare them to be collaborative, competitive and successful in our global world.

To the Class of 2025: You represent everything good about public education. You’ve persevered, grown and risen above challenges with courage and grace. You are dreamers and doers, scholars and leaders—and you have made us proud.

As I prepare to retire from this incredible journey in public education, know that I will always be cheering you on. No matter where life takes you, I believe in you and in all that lies ahead.

Congratulations, graduates! The best is yet to come.

Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr.

Superintendent

Cumberland County Schools