Pearl Neumann was presented with an honorary Spencerport High School diploma by Principal Sean McCabe during a ceremony on December 22, 2022. The 100 year old is a longtime resident of Manitou Road in Spencerport.
Pearl has always regretted not graduating from high school and was beyond excited and overwhelmed to receive her diploma. She attended Spencerport High School until she had to drop out during her sophomore year to work the farm with her mother and uncles. With the depression and WWII happening, Pearl never had the chance to return and finish high school and get her diploma.
The staff at Spencerport High School was very supportive and created an entire graduation ceremony for Pearl, starting with Pomp and Circumstance as she came out on stage. Principal McCabe spoke about Pearl and that sharing her life serving the Spencerport community in many important roles definitely earned her the qualifications well beyond requirements to receive her diploma. Pearl was asked to give some words of wisdom from her life experiences and she enthusiastically did. The Glee Club performed the National Anthem and some faculty and staff attended to congratulate Pearl.
The Neumann family is grateful to the Spencerport High School staff, especially Julie Hill and Principal McCabe, for taking the time and caring enough to honor Pearl and make her lifelong dream come true.
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