The Puxico High School Graduating Class of 2017 ended its high school career the evening of Friday, May 12, in the Arnold Ryan Gymnasium as each student participated in a commencement ceremony.
Guests were welcomed by class president Katelyn Pierre before the seniors marched to their seats.
The Puxico Intermediate Band preformed "Pomp and Circumstance." The Puxico Trumpet Quartet followed with the "Star Spangled Banner." Senior, Bradley Clark opened the ceremony. Dr. Kyle Dare, superintendent of schools, offered a brief introduction of board members before introducing Salutatorian Mallory Clark.
"I would first like to thank Jesus, my Lord and Savior for answering all of my prayers and my family for dealing with all of my moods when I would get stressed out," stated Clark. "For those of you that are going into work straight from school, remember that every job is worth doing right. Then, for those of you that are looking at college right around the corner, don't be afraid!"
Cindy Crabb, high school principal, introduced Katelyn Pierre, Emily Forshee, Emma Parsley and Mariah Fowler as the senior speakers.
"As most of you know, this year has been one for the record books," stated Pierre." To my basketball team, I've spent most of my life with you girls. We've been through hundreds of games and we have always managed to have each others' backs, no matter what. We've broken the glass ceiling for Puxico Lady Indians Basketball this past year, but now it's time for you to set new goals and achieve them."
Forshee's speech brought many of the graduating class to tears as she referred to her classmates as not only friends but also family.
"Most of us have been going to school together since kindergarten, but those of you who haven't well you have become part of the family. Like any family, we have had our ups and downs, but look at us now! Hand in hand taking our first steps into the next chapter."
Parsley gave a few heartfelt and courageous "thank yous" to her family and friends, including her late father, Jay Parsley, which brought most of the public to tears. In closing, Parsley stated, "Last, but not least, I would like to say thank you to my teachers and peers. It's not in too many schools that a teacher can be a friend, but I am happy I was blessed with that opportunity.
Closing the seniors' speeches, Fowler gave a sincere message to her fellow classmates. "I couldn't have asked for a better family to spend 13 years of my life with," stated Fowler. "When I have a family of my own someday, I pray that they are all just like you."
Following the speeches, the annual graduation video was shown, featuring pictures of the graduating seniors as babies or young toddlers and their senior picture. Dr. Dare introduced valedictorian Alexandra Crabb.
"I constantly said I couldn't wait to finally get out of this town, but now that I am minutes away from the rest of my life, I am not so sure," stated Crabb. "Study like crazy but don't lose track of staying involved. While your family may get on your last nerve, spend some quality time with them. Make time for your friends and know when to work and when to relax and have fun. Overall, Enjoy your time in high school and make memories that will last a lifetime."
After the valedictorian speech, scholarships where handed out and diplomas where presented to the 49 seniors. The Puxico Intermediate band preformed the Puxico School song and senior, Bradley McNew gave the closing. At the conclusion of commencement, Cindy Crabb presented the Class of 2017. Throwing their hats into the air, the Class of 2017 walked out of the Arnold Ryan Gymnasium for the last time. Knowing they will grow apart as they follow their dreams, this close-knit family of friends, will hopefully remain only a phone call away.