Saratoga High School Graduation 2023 is in the books

Spirits were high at the Saratoga High School as the Class of 2023 graduated.  The ceremony began with Principal JD Johnson welcoming everyone, and speaking about the class.  Johnson was followed by teacher Jason Williams, leading everyone in a prayer. Next, class president Gabby Johnson spoke.

Gabby Johnson started her speech by asking the audience to stand up and spin, saying "I read that if you moved your audience they would never forget you, and we're a pretty unforgettable class so I didn't want you to forget this".  The rest of her speech focused on the experiences of her class in school and the friendships that were made.  

Wyoming Attorney General Bridget Hill spoke next, focusing her speech on community, remembering where you came from, and leaving room to grow in the future.  She focused on her experience at Saratoga High School and encouraged the graduates to stay connected to their roots and their life-long friendships.  However, she also spoke about change over time, and emphasized them to "have strength, have confidence, and have courage to go after the things that you want, even if they are outside your comfort zone".

She finished by reminding the graduates to stay kind in a world of conflict and make their community strong despite personal differences.  

The next speaker was Salutatorian Deke Herring, who focused on the role of teachers and coaches in helping to shape the graduates as people.  He also spoke of memories that he had with his classmates.

Valedictorian Whitney Bennett gave the final speech.  She highlighted her class's accomplishments, while also emphasizing the need to be humble.  

"I think of the things that I've learned throughout all my losses and wins throughout these past four years that will apply to me throughout my whole life: Nothing is guaranteed so don't take anything for granted.  No matter what, someone will always be better.  If you're good at something you don't need to tell people. God is in control and everything happens for a reason.  One loss or win doesn't define who you are.  People will judge and hate no matter what.  Hard work goes a long way.  Cherish the wins and championships because they don't come around every day.  You can't accomplish anything without the help of others, and life isn't fair so get over it," Bennett stated.  

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The ceremony concluded with giving each graduate their diplomas, and a slideshow of each of the graduates.