NHCS Superintendent responds after controversial quote in Hoggard graduation speech

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — New Hanover County Schools Superintendent Christopher Barnes says the district is reviewing its graduation speech procedures following controversy surrounding a quote used during Hoggard High School’s commencement ceremony.

The statement comes after Hoggard High School valedictorian Kyler Hosek delivered a graduation speech that included the line, “As my biggest inspiration once said, every human being has something of value that they bring to the table.”

Following the speech, graduate Sara Rudeseal interrupted the diploma ceremony, alleging the quote was taken from a 2022 interview featuring Kanye West and omitted the ending of the original statement, which included the phrase “especially Hitler.”

The incident quickly drew attention on social media and prompted questions about the district’s process for reviewing graduation speeches.

In a statement released Tuesday, Barnes said the district “unequivocally rejects and condemns any messages of hate, discrimination, antisemitism, or other harmful ideologies associated with any individual or public figure.”

Barnes said the speech underwent New Hanover County Schools’ standard review procedures before graduation.

“As part of our established process, the speech underwent the district’s standard review procedures, including a review of the speech in its entirety,” Barnes said. “While the district did not identify any connection during the review process, we understand that some members of our community perceived the language differently.”

Barnes said the district is now examining its current procedures.

“Listening to those perspectives is important, and we are carefully reviewing our graduation speech protocols and practices to determine how additional guidance and safeguards can improve the process moving forward,” he said.

The superintendent added that the district’s goal is to ensure graduation ceremonies remain focused on celebrating student achievements.

“Our goal is to ensure that graduation ceremonies remain focused on celebrating students, honoring their accomplishments, and bringing our community together,” Barnes said. “We are committed to learning from this experience and continually improving the processes that support our students and families.”

Barnes said the district cannot discuss disciplinary matters or information related to a specific student’s educational record because of district policy and federal privacy laws.

Hosek’s family told WWAY the speech “was a positive outlook on the future of AI emphasizing the growing opportunity for all of us to make profound societal achievements in the future, that we all have something to offer and contribute, and that everyone has value.”