‘Farmers of Land and Sea,’ Molokai High School Class of 2025 Graduate

Photo by Marissa Motas

By Léo Azambuja
It was the last time Molokai High School’s Class of 2025 walked into The Barn as students. They are now Farmers for life.
“No matter where you are in life, even if you fall off the rails, put your trust in God and he will guide you. Class of 2025, I hope you take this advice with you in all your future endeavors. With that being said, congratulations, we made it,” Senior Class President Chloe Tancayo told her fellow seniors at the beginning of their graduation ceremony a couple weeks ago.
Family and friends of the school’s Class of 2025, themed Farmers of Land and Sea, packed the The Barn to celebrate 74 senior students graduating May 23.
Tancayo’s speech may have lasted longer than what she planned: she had to pause several times to let her tears flow.
“I, personally, am so proud of each and everyone of you. We all have our own way of life, but what matters is that in the end, we made it here together. I wouldn’t trade my graduating class for the world,” she said.
Several staff were recognized and draped with lei by students and event organizers.
Principal Katina Soares said Molokai is a place of deep roots where families can thrive. She told the students they hold the power to make the island the absolute best for the vibrant, fulfilling life they and their community will build.
“My call to action for you is this: Go out there, learn, grow, evolve, but then come back, reach back and have a positive impact on your island. It’s up to you to figure out how to make Molokai moh bettah, make Molokai the best for generations to come,” Soares said.
Organizers acknowledged five students who graduated with competency in Hawaiian language, one who already earned an associate’s degree in liberal arts, six who earned certificates of competency in basic carpentry skills, geographic information system and nursing aid from the University of Hawaii, Maui College, four who earned science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) honors, 18 who graduated with academic honors and several more with career or technical education honors.
Class Salutatorian Mahealani Braxton had a message for those who strive to be the best.
“It is completely OK to not be perfect. We often push ourselves to do everything flawlessly. But the truth is, we grow and get better because of our mistakes,” Braxton said.
Valedictorian Logan Oshiro said being from a small island does not limit them; it’s their greatest strength.
“Growing up here we’ve learned more than to throw net or shoot a buck. We learned about community, of working together and lifting each other up. We know what it means to be resourceful, to persevere and to cherish every opportunity. While the world may seem vast and scary, our roots and bonds will carry us wherever we go,” Oshiro said.
Valedictorian Rose Marie Cockett thanked God and her family, and pledged to uplift, learn and teach.
“I know that this journey is far from over because life is not a straight-forward path, it’s an unfolding one. And in this next chapter, I’m committed to continue growth, to continue learning and to continue to contribute meaningfully to our lahui (nation) and to the world,” Cockett said.
All the seniors performed their Class of 2025 song before receiving their diplomas. Then they sang the school’s alma mater, and walked off The Barn and into the parking lot to be greeted with lei from family and friends.