Donned in blue caps and gowns and surrounded by their family and friends, graduates of Olympic High School’s Class of 2014, sat quietly and listened as faculty speaker Jerry Hurd who told them to be proud of themselves. Hurd, who was chosen by the class to give the graduation address, has taught for 42 years reminded the graduates that “this is your time. When opportunity knocks, answer. But if opportunity doesn’t knock, go out and find it.”

Graduates cheered  “Jerry, Jerry, Jerry,” as he left the stage.

Following that, each received a diploma and on queue, threw their caps high in the air marking the end of high school and the beginning of their futures.