NEWELL—The end of a high school career can be both exciting and bittersweet. That feeling may be even stronger when a graduating class is made up of only seven students. That seemed to be the case during the Newell High School graduation on Saturday, May 16, as tears and laughter filled the ceremony.
Outgoing seniors Sarah Erk, Michael Lawson, Miya Mialloux, Tayla Neely, Jessica Raisanen, Rachel Stranberg, and Rowdy Wetz made their way into the Austin Auditorium in either white or maroon caps and gowns. They walked in to “Pomp and Circumstance.” Those seven students made up the Class of 2026 for the ‘Gators. Their class motto is, “If we wait until we are ready, we will be waiting the rest of our lives,” by Lemony Snicket.
Class colors are black, gold, and silver, with the class flower being a maroon dahlia. The class song is “Dancing in the Dark” by Rihanna. Ushers were MKenzie McTaggart, Soumeyilla Togola, Paul Raisanen, and Orrin Youngberg.
Dr. Pandi Pittman, superintendent and high school principal, welcomed everyone to the graduation ceremony. She then introduced the graduation speaker, Wyatt Vander Vorst.
Vander Vorst is the social studies teacher at Newell and was chosen by the graduating class to be the speaker for the occasion. “Good afternoon everyone, thank you for being here and Class of 2026, you made it…so I guess that I don’t have a lot to say that I haven’t already told these seven people that have totally made an impression on me.” He went on to talk about adversity and sacrifice and how what you learn from those times can make you stronger. He said that life wouldn’t always be easy but you can learn from those hard times.
A senior slideshow was created by Michael Lawson and contained senior pictures as well as baby pictures of the graduates. Each student picked their own theme song and motto for the display. As each graduate name and picture came up on the screen, the audience cheered.
Following the slideshow, the senior class presented red roses to those in their lives who have played a special role. Hugs, tears, and emotions highlighted this tradition.
Salutatorian Jessica Raisanen gave a speech and let everyone know that she did not like to speak in public but would do it for this special occasion. She went on to talk about the ups and downs her class endured through the years. “Our class has been through a lot together… it is hard to imagine that we were once a class of 19. Most of us have been here since elementary, and though we didn’t always get along… all of us have worked hard to get this far and I am personally very proud of our class,” she said.
Valedictorian for the Class of 2026 was Sarah Erk, and she addressed her classmates and the audience. She discussed the support that she received from her mom and dad and how much it meant to her. She went on to talk about how individual teachers and coaches impacted her life. “Even though it was tough and there were a lot of hard times, I wouldn’t change it because I wouldn’t be where I am today… We are all stronger because of what we faced, all of us have made changes. Good luck on your journey… and may your true friends and supporters always be there for you,” she said.
Tyrel Bonnet was responsible for the presentation of diplomas, and Pittman presented the Class of 2026. The graduates switched their tassels from the right to the left directly after receiving their diploma while still on stage. After finding their seats, the graduates exploded confetti cannons over the crowd in celebration. The recessional was to their class song, “Dancing in the Dark” by Rihanna.
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