NATCHEZ — For Leslie Pomeroy, valedictorian of the 2009 graduating class at Trinity Episcopal Day School, high school graduation marks the end of one stage of her life.

But, she said in her valedictory address to the other members of her senior class, it is also the beginning of the next stage in her life.

“This is the final moment of our high school career,” Pomeroy said. “But it is also a beginning — the beginning of life on our own.”

Trinity graduates were the final area seniors to turn their tassels. And for the 17 graduates wearing the black robes and red tassels graduation day was what they have been working toward for years.

Some have been classmates since grade school, while others joined the school more recently, Pomeroy said. But, she no matter how many years they have gone to class together, they will always share a bond.

“The journey started here years ago,” Pomeroy said. “Jobs, moves and even hurricanes have brought us together today.”

The close relationship the Trinity classmates shared was not only evident to Pomeroy. Class salutatorian Kate Huseman said she thought of her classmates of more of a family.

She said that much like siblings the members of the graduating class didn’t always see eye-to-eye but in the end friendship always prevailed.

“Our class may be small but we are more like a family,” Huseman said. “I don’t know where else I could find a closer group.”

Huseman began school at Trinity when she was in third grade and through the years, she said so many people — friends, classmates, family and school staff — have worked together to make her high school experience a positive one.

“Without the help of so many people we would not be here today,” she said.

Huseman said she felt blessed to graduate from Trinity.

“I’m thankful for the brilliant start,” she said.

Graduate Larry Calcote shared the same excitement. He said graduation was the culmination of a long journey.

“This is a great experience,” he said. “It is something we’ve been working toward, and I’m glad it is here.”

Calcote, who will attend Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, La., said despite being a standout athlete, the graduation ceremony made him a little uneasy.

“I was nervous up there,” he said.

But once the nerves passed, Calcote said his time at Trinity is something he will miss when he leaves Natchez for college.

“I’m going to miss my friends and family and this great school and teachers,” he said.