Fifty-four graduate from Royal Valley

Royal Valley High School’s commencement ceremony Sunday afternoon was a mixture of celebration and anticipation among the 54 graduating seniors.

“Whether we are ready or not, our lives are about to change dramatically,” RVHS valedictorian Kate Hanson said in her farewell address to her classmates. “While change is hard at first, it is this change that helps us grow and makes us into people we will be tomorrow. Every single person in our class has the potential to do great things in their lives if they’re willing to step out of their comfort zone and reach for it.”

Royal Valley High School Principal Jim Holloman highlighted the achievements of the Class of 2016 throughout their four years at RVHS, which included contributing to four Big Seven League championships.

Holloman noted that out of the graduating class, two are entering the military, seven are planning to attend vocational or tech training, 19 will enter the workforce and 26 will attend a two-year or four-year college.

Combined, classmates have received more than 50 college scholarships, Holloman noted.

Student Council President Macy Putnam gave the welcome.

“Seniors, we began high school together as children, but today we are leaving here as adults,” Putnam said. “We have completed the platform that will help us propel into our future. Some of us will go to college, some will serve our country and some will go straight into the workforce, but each of us will travel our own path that began at Royal Valley High School.”

Members of the RVHS Soundsations performed “Maybe Someday” under the direction of Laura Snyder.

Hanson, along with Salutatorian Derek Linn, also emphasized that RVHS served as a second home for the students.

“We are all part of the Royal Valley family,” Hanson said. “I think I speak for the majority of our class when I say we’re excited and ready for the next step, but I know we’re going to miss the comfort and community that is Royal Valley.”

Linn said he was nervous when he transferred to RVHS between his freshman and sophomore years of high school.

“Walking through the doors here at Royal Valley the first day of my sophomore year - not knowing a single - person, I was terrified,” Linn said. “Little did I know how quick it would be before I felt at home. These girls and guys behind me made me feel like I was at home, like I was a part of their family, the Royal Valley family, ever since that first day.” 

Sunday’s graduation was the last for Superintendent John Rundle, who has worked in the district for 40 years. Rundle is retiring after serving as superintendent for 15 years.

Rundle was named by Hanson among the many people who have supported the seniors throughout their high school journey. 

“On behalf of the Class of 2016, I would like to thank our parents, who have support us through it all; this amazing school district, the teachers and coaches for all they have done for us not only as students but as people; and last but not least, I would like to thank Mr. Rundle, who has been such a great leader in our district. You will be missed.”