Lonedell R-XIV

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And Off They Go

May 13, 2019

On Thursday and Friday, May 9th and 10th, our 8th grade students celebrated their upcoming graduation with a taco party and dance, and a farm themed dinner and games. They enjoyed country food, hats, and bandanas in a decorated room, complete with hay bales and mason jars. After this celebration, they enjoyed games of tractor races, sack races, and pony races. The 8th grade parent group put together these activities for their students.

On Saturday, May 11th, these students donned their caps and gowns and gathered in front of a packed gym. The ceremony began with a class prayer, given by Austin B. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Grace M. and Katryna B., followed by the school pledge led by Riley L. The band. directed by Terry Durgin, played the Star Spangled Banner featuring 8th graders Samuel. H and Kierstin C. Students were greeted by Superintendent Jenny Ulrich who said, "You are diverse and very talented....I want you to know that I am proud of each and every one of you....Please always remember that you will have a family here at Lonedell cheering you on the entire way!" Principal Dr. Wayne Dierker challenged these students, "Make sure that you take time every day to interact with the people around you and truly live in the moment. That is when you will create memories that you will forever cherish!"

The Lonedell Scholarship Committee awarded $14,600 in scholarships to 26 graduates heading to college and reminded each of these students that they will be expected back in four years to receive their own scholarships. Academic awards were given by our middle school staff. These awards included academic, students of the month, and concluded with Mrs. Vollmer announcing the Citizenship Award. This honor was awarded to William J. "Our Citizenship winner this year has a genuine sweet spirit, they show their concern for others by always talking with students and staff....What we appreciate most about this student is that he is so polite," stated Vollmer

Followed by awards, our Salutatorian, Madison U., addressed the crowd. "I don't know what high school is going to be like without you guys, but I'm really excited to see how many great accomplishments we all achieve. All of you guys are so very talented and I wish all of you the best," stated Madison. Ryan M., Valedictorian said, "I hope we keep these friendships in the future and continue to make new memories as we move on in life. I wold like to thank the parents and teachers for always pushing us to do our best and providing us with the support to achieve our goals."

Finally, it was time for each student to receive their diploma from School Board President, Brad Rucker. As each name was called, cheers rang out throughout the crowd. Once all of the graduate's names had been read, students were invited to turn their tassels as confetti flew. Students walked out to the school song played by our school band. Parents, families, friends, and graduates were treated to cookies and drinks as they took their last photographs.