Littlefork-Big Falls graduates 29 seniors in class of 2010
A close-knit class of 29 Littlefork-Big Falls seniors tossed their hats into the air in celebration of their graduation from high school Friday as their final act as L-BF students.
“As graduates, you have reached a major milestone where you can rightfully be proud of your accomplishments and your achievements,” said Superintendent Fred Seybert in opening the ceremony with congratulations to the class of 2010.
“As these seniors move on to the next stage in their lives, they will look back fondly on their years at Littlefork-Big Falls,” Seybert continued. “These years have made them who they are today, however we all keep in mind they are still works in progress.”
“I’ll honestly miss everything,” salutatorian Haylee Gates said, recounting her first day getting off the bus to attend the school, lunches and hallway time socializing with friends, and special events such as homecoming and prom. “What I am taking away from my experience here is priceless.”
Valedictorian Ann Kennedy shared a few of her favorite memories as well, and words of encouragement to her fellow graduates.
“Good luck in wherever life takes you, but never forget where you’re from,” she advised her friends. “Classmates, when you leave today don’t count your life on the wins and losses. Always strive for happiness.”
The graduating seniors were the first group to enter as kindergartners in the new L-BF School 13 years ago, Kennedy shared. Nineteen of the 29 graduates entered the school together. By seventh grade, 25 of the 29 were classmates.
“I believe this is what makes our class the close-knit group we are,” Kennedy said.
“We have earned a slight reputation for not always agreeing on things and making decisions,” Gates said. “But at the end of the day we did manage to accomplish what we set out to do. We are the class of 2010.”
Seybert recognized two staff members leaving the school this year, Vonna Sather, who is retiring after 33 years as head cook, and Peter Kowitz, who leaves his position as music teacher after four years to attend seminary.
The graduation ceremony also included two songs performed by members of the choir, and a slide show of each student and memories from the class’ years together. More than two dozen scholarships were awarded to seniors.
Before the presentation of diplomas by members of the school board, the students showed their appreciation for their parents by presenting them with orange roses, the class flower.
