We believe that every student’s path matters. That belief was front and center on Friday, May 23, as the McCaskey HS community gathered to celebrate the Class of 2025 at our annual Next Steps Ceremony, a day dedicated not to endings, but to beginnings.
Held just days before graduation, the Next Steps Ceremony is a tradition where we pause to recognize each senior’s post-graduation plans. Whether a student is heading to college, joining the military, entering a trade or training program, or stepping directly into the workforce, this event affirms that all paths forward are worthy of celebration and that no student walks their journey alone.
The ceremony was hosted by McCaskey’s Future Ready Center, a vital hub for college and career support, and the driving force behind preparing seniors for life after high school. The Future Ready Center has spent the entire year meeting students where they are listening to their goals, identifying opportunities, and guiding them through every milestone on the way to graduation.
This support looks different for every student. For some, it’s sitting down to complete a college application or walking through the FAFSA line by line. For others, it means preparing for a job interview, creating a résumé from scratch, or connecting with an apprenticeship program that aligns with their interests. Some students need help arranging meetings with military recruiters or selecting a short-term training program that fits both their skillset and schedule. What unites them all is a personalized, consistent support system, a team that doesn’t stop at advising but continues encouraging long after the application is submitted or the acceptance letter arrives.
Today’s celebration reflected that work. The atmosphere was intentionally light and fun, with music, games, food, raffles, and time to unwind. But beneath the festivities was a deeper message: we are proud of you, we see your growth, and we recognize how much effort it took to get here.
Jayden LaCoe, College & Career Adviser, who has worked side by side with many of these students throughout the year, reflected, “a lot of students get caught up in the whirlwind of graduation. This ceremony gives them space to slow down, breathe, and really appreciate what they’ve accomplished and where they’re going.”
LaCoe added that this moment isn’t just about celebration. It’s about acknowledgment. “So many students have checked a hundred boxes to get here. They’ve balanced school, responsibilities at home, and deadlines. This is their time to own that and feel proud of the next chapter they’ve chosen.”
Phil Jago,Coordinator of College and Career Services K–12, echoed those sentiments, noting that the event has grown into something truly special within the School District of Lancaster. “We’ve created something here that doesn’t exist in most districts. It’s not about fanfare, it’s about showing up for students in a way that’s honest and affirming. We want them to leave today knowing they’re prepared, supported, and deeply valued.”
This event also served as a reminder of the incredible work done year-round by the Future Ready Center. From helping students clarify their goals to guiding them through practical logistics, the team’s role is both expansive and deeply personal. They help students navigate barriers, find direction, and gain the confidence to take that first step whether that means walking onto a campus, clocking into a new job, heading off to boot camp, or learning a new trade.
As we look ahead to commencement next week, the Class of 2025 has much to be proud of. They are walking forward with plans in place, skills in hand, and a community that stands behind them. And for every senior who still has questions or needs support, the message from today was clear: the Future Ready Center is still here for you.
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