TULALIP — Tulalip Heritage High School sent off 18 graduating seniors June 14.

After a ceremonial greeting by the processional band Iron Horse, principal Shelly Lacy congratulated the graduates on their perseverance.

“Your hard work and commitment is what got you here today,” Lacy said. “As you take your next step in your journeys, please continue your hard work and following your dreams.”

Selected student speaker Samantha Marteney reflected on that hard work and last-minute assignments. She was thankful for the staff that supported her and the class.

“The only limit you have is the only limit you put on yourself,” Marteney said. “I’m proudly a heritage Hawk.”

She also said the hard work will help the graduating class in the future.

“When you doubt how far you can go, just remember how far you have come,” Marteney said. “Remember all the battles you have won and all the fears you have overcome.”

As the Hawks venture off into the real world they have expectations to meet.

“Not only do we have expectations set by our principal but from our community as well,” she said.

Other graduates are just as eager to take on those expectations, such as Robert Everett Jeter III who wants to join the coast guard.

“It’s another big step in life to do big things,” he said.

Jeter said the support from teachers and staff has helped him mentally and spiritually. It will serve him well in his career, he said.

“They helped with a lot of things like being humbled and being prepared for all things at all times,” he said.

Another grad is Diana Morning Star Aguilar, who wants to study psychology in college.

“The mind is fascinating, and I want to help people,” she said.