Maybe it was Nate Leamon who said it best. In delivering the closing remarks at the Eisenhower graduation earlier this month, he acknowledged the challenges this group of seniors faced.

With Youngsville High School closing, it brought potential rivals together. “Nothing great happens when you stay in your comfort zone,” he said. “… This class is full of strong, capable, determined individuals and I truly believe that every single one of us has what it takes to be successful.”

It was far from perfect, but it had to happen. The closing of Sheffield and Youngsville high schools are no longer something new. This is the norm moving forward.

While those who are opposed lament the loss, population and enrollment trends dictated it happening. It appears respondents are starting to accept the transition.

In our poll last week, “One year later, do you think the county school board made the right choice by closing high schools in Sheffield and Youngsville?” 55% said yes with 45% saying no.

We do understand that change is never easy — especially for the Classes of 2026 in this county. That stated, they persevered and made the best of the situation.

This week’s poll question at timesobserver.com: Are you planning to celebrate the upcoming 250th birthday of America by attending a parade or event?