Dear Class of 2016,

It's crazy to think that in a few weeks you will be graduating. I remember standing in your shoes like it was yesterday. I remember wishing the last few weeks would fly by so I could just get out of there, but looking back I wish I had just a little more time there.

As you reach the last few weeks of your high school career, cherish every moment you spend with you classmates and teachers. I know you hear this often, but it flies by, and unless you take the time to appreciate every moment you are going to miss out. I know that everyone hates high school, but take the time to put your ego behind you for these last weeks and enjoy all your last moments.

In these few weeks, you will have a lot of these 'last moments'. The last time you take an exam. The last time you spend your free period with your favorite teacher. The last time you go to your guidance counselor for advise. The last time you go to a sports game. The last time you walk down the school hallways. The last time you go to prom. The last time you can call yourself a high school student. These may seem like every day things right now, but in a few months, you'll realize how much you miss just being in high school for these simple reasons.

As you walk down the halls these last few weeks take the time to look around, because you won't see those hallways for a long time. When you go to your classes, make sure you thank ALL your teachers, because they have been rooting for you to succeed since day one, and although it may not always seem like it they care about you a lot. When you hang out with your friends in your favorite spot, appreciate the time you spend with them because in a few months you could be hundreds of miles away from them.

My point is, don't take a single thing for granted. Even if you hated high school, I can bet that come next fall you will miss it. You'll miss seeing your favorite teacher every day, and walking down the hallway saying hi to all your friends. So please appreciate these last few weeks, and go to all the events. Have a blast at prom, go to all the senior events, and on graduation day be proud of everything you have accomplished. This is your time, enjoy it.

In a few months you will be starting the next chapter of your life, and although it is exciting, it is a whole other ballgame. Appreciate high school, but be prepared for another exciting four years in college. You will all do amazing things in your lives no matter what career you chose to pursue. I have watched each of you grow up to be hard-working and inspiring people. I know that you are ready, so as you reach the end of your high school career and make your way to the football field on graduation day, walk across that stage with pride in yourself and confidence in your future. Make memories these last few weeks that will last a lifetime, don't waste your lasts.

"Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good."