'ANCHORS AWAY': Destin students set sail at graduation

It’s that time of year again for parents to pull out the tissues and cameras and watch as their children march past them to “Pomp and Circumstance.” Thursday saw both Destin Elementary and Destin Middle School students graduate to the next grade level, and leave their halls behind for the last time.

At DES, fourth graders said goodbye to their old stomping grounds by walking the school campus in the traditional “Clap Out,” parade. Parents lined the halls clapping and high-fiving as the students filed into the auditorium.

 “It has been a great pleasure to know this fourth grade class,” DES Principal Janet Stein said to the group of 162 students and their families. “I know you have what it takes to make the world a better place because I’ve seen every one of you do something to help your community and your classmates throughout the year.”

Over at the middle school, 129 Destin Marlins prepared to walk the stage for the last time, headed to various high schools around the county in the coming school year.

“You know what this year was?” DMS Principal Charles Marello asked the students. “This year was the defining moment.”

Mayor Mel Ponder also addressed the eighth graders, encouraging them to carry city pride wherever they go.

 “It’s a bittersweet day for me and for the city,” Ponder said. “You will be attending high schools in other cities, but you will know that the wind behind your wings is that you have a city that celebrates you, your gift and your calling.”

For photos of DES 4th grade graduation  CLICK HERE

For photos of DMS 8th grade graduation CLICK HERE