Seniors graduate in 44th commencement ceremony

Three-hundred sixty-three students received their high school diplomas on June 6 in the high school gymnasium. This year’s graduation ceremony, which marks the 44th commencement exercise, lasted approximately an hour and a half.

Beginning at 7 p.m., the choir and orchestra performed select songs to start the event. Senior Lucas Geissler recited the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a speech from Principal Kent Bergum congratulating the seniors.

Valedictorian Amber Holmes and salutatorian Megan Berg delivered their speeches after Principal Bergum spoke. Holmes delivered her speech on gratitude. Salutatorian Megan Berg spoke about promise.

“They were both really good speeches. I could just tell that they are really smart kids and really deserve their titles,” sophomore Taylor Wahlberg said.

Mr. Scott Bruce, who was this year’s senior counselor, announced the scholarships.

Seniors were then called across the stage in alphabetical order to receive their diplomas. Senior Marzett Turner stepped out of tradition by ripping off his robes on stage after his name was called to reveal a tight-fitting pink leotard. Turner proceeded to do cartwheels across the stage.

Sophomore Sharita Turner, Marzett Turner’s cousin, was at graduation.

“When I saw it, I was just like, ‘That is so like Marzett,’” Sharita Turner said. “I think he really represents how outgoing the class of 2009 can be.”