Friends and family members packed the gymnasium at Wright City High School last Friday to celebrate the 95 seniors who received their diplomas during the Class of 2017 commencement ceremonies.The graduation was scheduled to be held on the football field, but a rainy forecast forced the events indoors. However, that did not dampen the spirits or the sense of humor displayed by those spending their final moments as Wildcats.“They say school is a small part of your life, but to us it seemed like an eternity,” quipped Justin Bote, one of three students who spoke to the crowd.He went on to challenge his classmates to “strive to be more and strive to make a difference.”The ceremony opened with a flurry of compliments and stories about the Class of 2017 from Principal Shawn Brown and Superintendent Dr. David Buck.The Wright City Marching Band then performed an “Irish Tune From County Derry,” prior to the announcement of the cum laude honors. Honors were awarded, as Amy Janowski was named Female Student of the Year and Damian Dyer was awarded Male Student of the Year.Class President Taylor Plunkett opened the student speeches, admitting that she had assumed the role of class mom in looking out for her peers. She closed by saying, “From this point on, it’s us versus the world,” and implored her classmates to “dream fully.”Hailey Mueller then took the stage and talked about everything the Class of 2017 had overcome. She asserted that her class had not just survived, but it had thrived. And she challenged her fellow seniors to not be afraid of what stands in their way, but to “go forth and do it anyway.”This year’s group of seniors selected social studies teacher Devin Raney as their faculty representative speaker to present the keynote address.Raney shared humor but also took a serious approach, reminding students they must distinguish themselves among the 7.5 billion people on the planet.He encouraged them to enjoy the journey, noting that “All your achievements mean nothing if you don’t find joy in the meaning of life.”Diplomas were then awarded, with celebratory dancing, high-fives and fist bumps. Students displayed their enthusiasm for one another’s accomplishments and enjoyed what would be the final moments at Wright City High School.“They have taken great pride in being Wright City Wildcats, and it kind of exudes from them,” shared Brown.

Pictured above are Jacob Meneau and Jacob Mueller proceeding with their classmates during the Wright City High School Class of 2017 commencement May 19. Record photo/ Derrick Forsythe.

Amy Janowski accepts her diploma from Wright City High School Principal Shawn Brown. Record photo/ Derrick Forsythe.