Graduation is a time that kids can’t wait for, a time where they have proven they are becoming adults, they have done it, made it through high school. This is also a time the community gathers to celebrate the achievements of yet another wonderful group of kids becoming adults. This year saw a record crowd at Todd Field, both sides of the bleachers were full, and it was standing room only on the concourse near the concessions stand.
Students give speeches, family members shed tears, friends laugh about the memories made in high school and for the Class of 2024, 346 students walked across the stage to shake the hands of the school board members before they get their official diploma sleeve.
Ruby Rotty welcomed the capacity crowd to kick off the event before Principal Scott Doran became the host of his second graduating class. Teacher Cindy Benson gave the second speech followed by Joseph Mann. Mann’s speech kept getting interrupted by his cap not wanting to stay on his head, a point of a few ad-libs that cracked up the crowd. Principal Doran then presented the Class of 2024 for certification of graduation to School Board Chair Carrie Tate. The presentation and acceptance are the legal portions of the graduation ceremony, making the 346 students official graduates of Hastings High School. Tate accepted and certified the Class of 2024, and the students made their way to the stage.
Congratulations to the Class of 2024! Like thousands of Raiders before you, the community is better because you were a large part of it. Go out, change the world and may each of you do great things as great people.