Eldorado Class of 2018: 'Best year of my life so far'
ELDORADO - The Class of 2018 heard words of praise and inspiration from classmates and administrators Friday, at their commencement ceremony Friday evening in Duff-Kingston Gymnasium.
Co-valedictorian Jordan Fricks, in his address, said the extracurricular activities he passed up were worth the sacrifice to be one of the top students in the class.
"A lot of people were worried about me, because I didn't go to homecoming, didn't go to senior prom and didn't go on any senior trips," Fricks said. "But, I didn't give it up. I just traded it in. This year has been the best year of my life so far."
He removed his mortarboard briefly to reveal his dyed hair, adding that he often felt as if he didn't fit in. He said, though, that this last year, he enjoyed staying true to himself and finding his place in his class.
Fellow co-valedictorian Kale Oglesby thanked God, his parents and family, classmates and sports teammates for helping him succeed academically.
He ended his address with a Bible verse he reads daily for motivation.
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving (Colossians 3:23 and 24)."
Chaitlyn Stanley was recognized as salutatorian of the class.
Assistant Principal Cody Cusic honored Garrett Canimore and Madison Newton with awards for perfect attendance in all four years of high school.
Superintendent and Principal Ryan Hobbs also said the Class of 2018 has received a prestigious honor, which reflected the hardworking attitude of the seniors.
"Just this week, U.S. News and World Report announced our school was a Bronze School," Hobbs said. "it was the first time in our school history we've had that honor."
After lengthy applause, he continued.
"I think it says a lot about these graduates and this class," Hobbs said.