As sunshine beamed on Spillane Field Friday afternoon, more than 150 Wareham High School students tossed beach balls into the air, blew bubbles, and listened to friends and family members cheer as they collected their diplomas and successfully ended their high school careers.

"It is the end of high school, but is not the end of everything we have learned inside the classroom and out," Class of 2011 saludictorian Marley Harunk told her fellow graduates before repeating a quote Dr. Seuss made famous: "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened."

The majority of the graduates - 81% - will be entering college next fall, while 18% will enter the workforce and 1% will enter the military, said Wareham High School Principal Scott Palladino.

It was Palladino's first commencement ceremony as principal of Wareham High.

"You've done what has been asked of you with style an dignity," Palladino said of the graduating class. He served as assistant principal at the school when this year's graduates were freshmen and sophomores.

"Learn something new every day. Don't be afraid to make mistakes, as that is how we learn," he told the class.

After the changing of their tassels and leaving the ceremony to Alice Cooper's "School's Out," the graduates excitedly spoke of their accomplishment.

"It feels great," exclaimed Alana Watkins, nearly speechless. Watkins was the center for this year's girls varsity basketball team, which boasted a 20-1 regular season record.

"It feels wonderful," said Josh Tomkiewicz. Especially "achieving everything for my [final] portfolio."

The graduates signed for their official high school diplomas before meeting up with thrilled family members waiting outside the field.