Horizon High School holds 2020 graduation

Kayne Pyatt, Herald Reporter
Posted 6/5/20

HHS holds second-ever outdoor graduation

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Horizon High School holds 2020 graduation

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EVANSTON — Wyoming blessed Horizon High School with a beautiful sunny day and no wind for its outdoor graduation ceremony held on Friday, May 29. The six graduates — Bobee Caves, Anna Cook, Nicholas Lowe, Daymian Nicksich, Valeria Saavedra, and Zechariah West — had successfully completed all of their requirements to graduate and were lined up at the end of the sidewalk near the bus pickup.

A stage with a backdrop of balloons, a poster, containers of flowers, and a media screen faced the graduates. Families remained in their vehicles and parked facing the students. The ceremony was captured and released for viewing on Mylocalradio.com.

Horizon 2020 graduates chose two quotes for their graduating program: Grandma Moses’ “Life is what we make it, always has been, always will be,” and “Wherever you go, go with all your heart,” by Confucius.

At exactly 6 p.m., the processional started with music over a loudspeaker. The students walked in front of their families’ cars to six chairs placed 6 feet apart in front of the staging area. Speeches were prerecorded and played on a large video screen.

Principal Shad Hamilton addressed the students and families.

“This is only the second outdoor graduation at Horizon to have ever taken place,” Hamilton said, and then introduced valedictorian Zechariah West whom he stated was one of the most patient and polite students he has known and that it was a privilege to work with him.

West began his speech by thanking Horizon faculty and staff and then quoting Nelson Mandela: “The greatest glory in living lies in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” West continued by encouraging his fellow students to let no obstacle stop them from achieving their goals. “Our paths have crossed, and I stand beside you. Thank you,” he said.

Hamilton said every year graduating students are asked if there is anyone else who would like to give a speech and this year Valeria Saavedra volunteered. “Val”, Hamilton said, “wants to be an English teacher and she has been quite a leader at Horizon.”

Saavedra thanked each and every teacher individually for the significant lessons they had given her.

“Horizon has had quite an impact on my life, even though I haven’t gone here all four years,” she said. “I owe Horizon a lot and because of everyone here, I made it to graduation.” She also thanked her classmates. “We will rule the world one day. There is potential in each of us to make a change in the world.”

Following the student speeches, two teachers, Kim Lahm and Denice Barker, who had been chosen by the graduating class, gave a joint prerecorded speech.

“When you are climbing a mountain, you can either sing or complain,” Barker said. “I have chosen in my life to sing. I am encouraging you to do the same as singing makes more sense. Don’t let words control you, remember the lesson, not the disappointment; remember you are loved more than you know. Focus on taking the first step and choose joy.”

Lahm said, “Difficult roads often lead to great destinations. Choose friends that support you and stay away from people who hold you back. Be who you are and don’t pretend to be someone you’re not.”

Lahm ended with a popular Irish blessing, and she and Barker congratulated the graduates and told them how proud they are of them all.   

Hamilton then announced those who had received scholarships: Nicholas Lowe and Valeria Saavedra both received the Hathaway Opportunity Level scholarship. Zechariah West had also received the Hathaway Opportunity Level scholarship as well as the University of Wyoming Gear Up and Opportunity Level scholarships. Hamilton said Opportunity Level scholarships are based on a high enough grade point average.

Speaking last was Assistant Superintendent Doug Rigby. He reminded the audience of how important Horizon High School is to him, as 15 years ago, he was the first principal of the school and Horizon had its first graduation outdoors at the Evanston Depot. 

“You will remember this moment and will cherish it because of its uniqueness,” Rigby said. “Horizon is a special place for me and for you. Horizon accepts you for who you are. I am proud to be a part of this graduation. Congratulations.” He then certified that the six students had met all of the requirements to graduate and receive a diploma.

Principal Hamilton followed Rigby and said to the graduates, “All six of you represent perseverance, and we are always going to be in your court. These diplomas represent 12 years of perseverance and the fact that you did not give up, and we respect you for that. I am proud that you persevered and took responsibility to achieve this goal. You may now come up as I call your name and pick up your diploma off the table. Congratulations.”

One by one, the graduates came to the stage, picked up their diploma and had their picture taken. When they were all in their seats once again, they stood together and threw their hats in the air to cheers and car horns honking.