With the turn of a tassel, 240 seniors declared their freedom from Warrenton High School on Saturday as graduating members of the Class of 2018.Sunny skies allowed for an enjoyable outdoor celebration, as diplomas were handed out on the football field. As each senior crossed the stage to receive their diploma, it signaled the end of one era and the beginning of another — whether that means a four-year university, college athletics or a tech school.For Ben Chilson, who finished among the top of his class academically, it’s a sigh of relief from four years of hard work.“I always tried to challenge myself doing honors classes, because I wanted to be more than just standard,” said Chilson. “This is definitely relieving, because those upper level classes can be stressful, especially when you’re working hard and trying to be the best you can.”The Class of 2018 saw continued opportunity, as each year brought the chance to learn more through new Project Lead the Way and advanced placement classes. It allowed them to find their career paths that may have previously been unclear.“We got to see more classes unlock for us each year,” said Chilson.Giving her final commencement address, retiring Assistant Superintendent Dr. Jill Schowe encouraged students to be independent and resourceful.“The best way for you to predict your future is for you to create it yourself,” said Schowe, who reminded the graduates that they are responsible for, not entitled to, a future of success.Students also heard from two peers selected to present speeches, as Dylan O’Neal and Chris Vogt shared words of wisdom and a few quips about the journey to this point.Embarrassing haircuts and fads will fade away, but the class that dabbed its way through high school is hopeful to have left an enduring legacy. O’Neal and Vogt urged their fellow classmates to work toward achieving their full potential and not be limited by this world.“Every single one of us has an opportunity to pursue our own personal happiness,” said O’Neal. “We all have enormous potential. Any one of us can make a positive difference in the world. We must attack our endeavors with ferocity. We must be prepared to carve our own paths and push ourselves as far as we can.”The A Capella choir echoed those sentiments with its performance of “I Lived,” by One Republic. The Warrenton High School band also delivered a few selections, with senior members performing for the final time in front of a packed set of bleachers.

Warrenton High School's class of 2018 happily throw their caps into the air, a graduation ceremony tradition. The seniors graduated May 12. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe

Cooperative weather allowed for an outdoor graduation ceremony May 12 for 240 seniors from Warrenton High School's Class of 2018. A Capella choir sang "I Lived" by One Republic and retiring Assistant Superintendent Dr. Jill Schowe provided a send-off speech for the accomplished group of students. 

Record photo/Derrick Forsythe