Students in Guthrie High School’s Class of 2024 completed their 13-year journey from kindergarten to Friday’s celebratory graduation ceremony in front of a packed crowd at Jelsma Stadium.
A total of 238 graduates received their diplomas at The Rock, putting the finishing touches on a four-year high school allegiance that included the historic Covid-19 pandemic when they were freshmen. But, they persevered nonetheless.
After the procession of graduates to their seats, Student Body President Kyndal Carey welcomed families and others who were in attendance, and Class President Makenna Bench welcomed the Class of 2024 to the ceremony.
Guthrie High Principal Dusty Throckmorton introduced the nine class valedictorians: Makenna Bench, Isabella Benham, Caleb Canning, Abbygail Christian, Abbie Eichler, Rylee Green, Christian Perrin, Lucia Porter and Hallie Ross. Christian and Green gave valedictory addresses.
Along with the valedictorians, 45 Blue Jays were National Honor Society students. Those students were given gold cords to commemorate their academic successes.
Following the certification of the class by Throckmorton, School Superintendent Dr. Mike Simpson said the words everyone in attendance was waiting to hear and presented the class to receive their individual diplomas.
Later, Bench led the class in the ceremonial turning of their tassels, and the celebration officially began. The journey had officially reached its conclusion for the Class of 2024.
Congratulations to all the graduates on all their hard work!