The drizzling rain wouldn’t prevent Nanih Waiya’s Class of 2023 from obtaining their high school diplomas on Tuesday, May 23. Although the weather was dreary, the stadium was overflowing with family and friends of the graduates as well as members of the community. The superintendent, Dr. David Luke, and members of the school board were present for the ceremony.
The STAR student, Dallas Dixon, welcomed the attendees to the graduation. After a prayer and the National Anthem, Dr. Paula Stokes introduced the Salutatorian, Melanie Ugalde. Stokes announced that Ugalde completed her high school years with a 103.05 cumulative average. Ugalde presented a small portion of her speech in Spanish, giving a personal touch to the ceremony.
Dr. Stokes then welcomed the Valedictorian, who is also her granddaughter, Jaylee Stokes. Stokes would present the valedictorian with a medal and a hug. Ms. Stokes completed high school with a 103.46 average. Jaylee would speak about the future of the class of 2023, reminding them “The future is in our hands; stay true to who you are.”
The graduates honored a member of their class who passed away, J.D. Eaves. The class did so by placing his cap and gown in a chair alongside his fellow graduates.
