Before the senior class can walk, a series of events play out, including opening remarks, a performance from the Master Singers and orchestra and then a welcoming speech from senior and former Knight Life reporter Axel Herrera-Villalobos.
After a second performance by Master Singers, the Loy Norrix band played “Across the Wind” by Doug Spata and “Tripwire” by JaRod Hall, which was followed by a speech given by senior Obed Aguilar.
After the students’ involvement in the opening ceremony was done, Dean of Students Stephanie Perry delivered a presentation. This was followed by Superintendent Darren Slade’s commencement speech before the procession and the granting of diplomas to students.
Some students were eager to graduate, ready to leave behind high school and enter adult life.
“I’m excited. It’s been a long time coming and I’m proud, ” said senior Amilyah Moncrief.
The staff in attendance were equally excited, some being with the same group of kids since they entered the building.
“They [class of 2025] were amazing. I came in with them. They were my first year in their first year of high school, so seeing them leave is a great accomplishment,” said Assistant Principal Andrew Muysenberg.
Other students will look back on their experience with mixed emotions. Some students wished that their graduating class had a stronger sense of closeness or community.
“I’m glad we have a big class,” said senior class President Leland Wagner,” that means we have a lot of potential futures. I wish our class was a little more connected. There’s a lot of different groups that don’t communicate with each other, so I wish we were connected in that sense.”
