As the class of 2013 filed onto the football field on Saturday, May 18, students smiled and waved at their parents and friends sitting in the surrounding bleachers. After the 264 graduates took each of their seats on the 50-yard line, principal Tobie Waldeck took the stage to begin his annual speech, tearing up about losing “the most successful class to ever graduate.”

“It was great to see a principal say goodbye in that manner,” senior Brenna Iskra said. “It was exposed and just really true.”

Along with Waldeck, seniors, including StuCo leaders Lisa Galvan and Stephen McEnery, along with valedictorians Hanna Torline, Nathan Stacy and Maddie Estelle, and social studies teacher Jeff Wieland made speeches. They celebrated the achievements of the class, but also revisited memories of their years together.

“I thought all the speeches were great,” Iskra said. “The student speakers all testified to who our class really was and Wieland definitely gave us advice that we can use for the future.”

Iskra said overall she enjoyed the ceremony because of the energy the crowds brought by cheering, ringing cowbells and blowing air horns as the students accepted their diplomas.

“Sitting with everyone and enjoying the excitement around me [was my favorite part],” Iskra said. “I don’t think the whole concept of never coming back hit me.”