KENNEBUNK — The theme for the 167 seniors who graduated from Kennebunk High School Sunday afternoon was that no matter what is in store for them in the future, it will be much different than their past four years on Fletcher Street.

Whether it is college, a trade or a gap year, the “bubble that is Kennebunk High School,” as valedictorian Amy Eckland dubbed it, will no longer protect them.

But, as salutatorian William O’Neil pointed out, those who were seated at KHS Stadium during the blustery, sunny day will be well-prepared.

“Our class is extremely diverse,” he said. “We have a unique perspective that will allow us to solve the complex problems (we will face).”

O’Neil noted that the 141st graduating class will move on to a wide array of distinguished schools across the country, and that there are 11 International Baccalaureate candidates – the most in the school’s history.

Eckland warned her peers that any accomplishments achieved up to this point will not matter in the next chapter in their lives – but also reminded them that they have been prepared to take on almost anything.

“No matter where you go from here … I guarantee there will be something you are not prepared for,” she said. “But we all have accomplishments, whether we’ve been recognized or not.”

Michael Laverriere, a guidance counselor at KHS who was chosen by the class to give the faculty address, asked the graduates to remember to be positive, respectful and kind. When they are faced with a life dilemma, they should think before acting, he added.

“The one freedom in life you have control over is the freedom to choose how you respond,” he said.

He ended by quoting Mahatma Gandhi: “Your life is your message.”