The Final Viking Voyage
Aelyn Thompson
Staff Writer
Monday, May 12 marked the last day the class of 2014 tapped their feet waiting for the final bell to release these going-to-be graduates.
At 3:40, the seniors left. Their final Viking Voyage has come to an end.
“It was rough,” senior Rachael Parks said. “I made so many memories and I changed so much over the years, but I’m happy to go and start my life.”
Parks is just one of the 100 plus faces that has memories with this graduating class, including administrators. Teachers obviously had a huge impact on these teens, but these teens impacted educators in a way that opened their eyes to their students.
“They don’t act as if they are entitled,” English teacher Lisa Graham said. “It’s truly wonderful to see.”
This class has a stamp, a brand engraved into the minds of every person they influenced through their 13 years of grade school, creating bonds and examples that people will struggle to replace.
“I’m going to miss their leadership,” freshman Lindsay Brunssen said. “In sports, in the halls, everywhere.”
This brand of character and integrity is backed with intellect beyond these 18 year olds’ age. From the seven class members who received a 30 or above on their ACT, to Chandler Haist and Jared Story receiving special academic recognition in Business and Economics.
Seniors Tyson Mooers, hopeful computer software designer with honors and a full-ride to UNO, Caitlin Davis, who placed nationally at speech and made huge strides in FFA experimentation and Emily Clarke, who used her exceptional musical talents and brilliant mind to set her hopes on world travel and impacting the planet.
Every member of this class has affected someone in numerous ways, from the unsung heros who talk their friends away from the ledge, to those who simply help a freshman pass their Spanish quiz by teaching them how to remember to say “hace viento”.
As cap and gown rentals are underway, the reality of graduation is as forceful and overwhelming as a tidal wave.
“I’m going to miss every single person I saw everyday,” senior Spencer Prockish said. “We’re all going to different places and I’m never going to see them again.”
As all the trunks slam shut full of dorm supplies and dreams for the future, a new class is stepping up.
“I’m going to miss this class’s humor and seeing them every day,” junior Tony Trausch said. “But we’re ready to leave our mark.”
The names on this year’s diplomas represent more than just academics and the ability to go on and do bigger and better things. This class represents heart, character and the ability to stand through troubled waters.
Toss your caps, graduates.
You did it.
