Madalynn Retzlaff
Yesterday, the Class of 2025 walked the halls of CHS for the last time to receive their long-awaited diploma. Overall, these seniors have worked so hard for this and deserve every moment.
I had the honor of being at graduation, helping the graduates parade around the gym one last time. The procession – going two at a time, brought a lot of parents to tears as they watched their baby go around the gym one last time.
The speeches everyone got to witness from Duncan Rosno, Alyn Estrada-Morales, Trey Hackett, Dany Rodriguez, and Caiti Campbell were absolutely beautiful. Every speech held morals of love, compassion, and staying connected after leaving school.
My favorite part of any speech was when Dany quoted, “Anyways, don’t be a stranger” at the end of his speech. Something as small as that brought many people to tears as it helped them realize this class is truly connected.
After the students’ heartfelt speeches, and some from Mr. Hiebner and Dr. Kay, the CHS New World Singers got together one last time to sing a beautiful version of the song “For Good” from Wicked. All of the New World Singers – except for five juniors – were seniors, and this was the last time they would ever sing as part of Columbus High.
The seniors received their diploma from Mr. Jeffryes from the School Board, and shook hands with their principal and counselor: Ms. Leifeld and Ms. Loeffelholz. Those who have family within the school district (like Hailey Haynes) got to receive their diploma from their parents. This was a tear-jerker for sure.
At the end of the ceremony, every graduate got to do the most rewarding thing – move the tassel from the right to the left. Everyone was ecstatic because they did it! They survived high school. And just think – in a few years that will be you!
While the seniors are gone “For Good”, the newspaper isn’t quite yet! Pop onto AnchorNews one last time tomorrow for your last article from your favorite reporter!