Mokena Junior High School Class of 2021 Celebrates Graduation

191 8th grade students from Mokena Jr. High School and their family members gathered in the football stadium at Lincoln-Way Central on Sunday, May 30, eagerly awaiting the next chapter of life: high school. This year’s ceremony was held outside and guests were limited due to COVID-19.

13 students donned golden honor cords, having met the required number of service hours and maintained their GPA according to the National Junior Honors Society standards for their 8th grade year. 60 of the 191 students wore medallions to recognize academic achievement: maintaining a GPA of at least 4.67 out of a possible 5.33 during all of their jr. high years.

After the graduates processed into the stadium, the presentation of the colors by the William Martin V.F.W. Post 725 Color Guard, and the virtual playing of the national anthem by the MJHS Symphonic Band, Principal Dr. Mike Rolinitis gave a few words about the graduating class: “ I’m convinced that we made it through this unbelievable year, a year with what seemed to be insurmountable challenges, because of one thing: Meteor character. We never allowed ourselves to give up or be daunted by loss. We continued fighting through every change and challenge and we made the best of every situation. They say that trying times test character. I say that the children before you were tested and passed with flying colors. I’m proud say that I was your principal and I know that I am handing Dr. Provis, the principal of Lincoln-Way Central, an amazing group of kids.”

Several awards were presented. The P.T.A. Heritage Award for leadership, community involvement, and the demonstrating that the work of an individual can make an impact was given by Mrs. Kelly Chlebek, P.T.A. President. The recipient of this award receives a plaque and a flag that has flown over the Capitol building. The 2021 P.T.A. award recipient was Daniel Lesser. He volunteers at NAWS Animal Shelter seven days per week taking care of the animals. Daniel also enjoys baking for the volunteers weekly and makes pillows and toys for animals in need. Throughout his time at MJHS, has also maintained a 4.7 GPA or higher.

The V.F.W. awards, presented by Dr. Rolinitis were given to students who have shown the characteristics of service, citizenship, scholarship, and leadership. The award winners were Paul Taussig and Gabriella Bush.

The Mokena Music Department also presented three awards, the Fred Waring Director's Award for Chorus, the Director's Award for Band, and the Director’s Award for Musical Theatre. These awards, presented by Band Director Mrs. Karen Bussean and Choir Director Mrs. Rebecca Cheney, were given to musicians who exemplified leadership, dedication, willingness to go above and beyond, and positive attitude. The Chorus Award was given to Kayla Wagner and the Band Award went to Paul Taussig. The award for musical theatre were given to one outstanding actor and one member of the technical crew who positively impacted Mokena’s music program through outstanding leadership, creativity, insight, and involvement. Austin Ruzich was selected for the actor award and Daniah Corp was selected for the technical crew award.

The next awards were the Des Plaines Valley Conference awards, presented by Assistant Principal Mr. Luke Munch. Given to students who excelled both academically and athletically, the Des Plaines Valley Conference awards are proof that students can juggle both academics and extracurricular activities (and excel at the same time!). One of the awards went to Bella Dimitrijevic, who graduated with a 5.105 GPA and played softball, basketball, and volleyball for Mokena Jr. High. The male recipient was Liam Arsich, who was a member of baseball, basketball, and track at Mokena and graduated with a 4.966 GPA.

Superintendent Dr. Mark Cohen presented the Class of 2021 and gave a quick address, saying, “I am very proud of all of the efforts that our Mokena family put in to make this year a great one…Certainly the last 15 months have provided challenges, but also opportunities for us to learn if we reflect on the experiences that we’ve had. Here are some things that I’ve learned in 2020 and 2021: being flexible and versatile is a very important life skill, technology is important to our lives, but is no substitute for in-person interaction, and we are stronger when we are pulling together in the same direction, as a family, as a school, or as a community, how important relationships are in our lives, and we are stronger than we know. All the lessons you have learned from Kindergarten through 8th grade have prepared you well for what awaits you in high school. Stay positive, be patient, work hard, and take good care of your family, friends, and yourself and you will go far.”

After Dr. Cohen’s address, 191 smiling faces walked across the stage and received their diplomas. Dr. Rolinitis closed the ceremony, addressing the graduates: “You are now part of an elite group. You are Meteors for life. No matter where you go or what gown you wear for your next graduation, you will always be wearing Meteor green underneath.”

We at Mokena School District 159 cannot wait to see what the future brings these wonderful students!