Lakewood celebrates class of 2021

Lakewood High School graduates walked across the graduation stage at Angel of the Winds Arena and celebrated their successes over the last four years.

The school’s commencement ceremony was held on June 11.

Students talked about approaching their final year with optimism despite the difficulties and challenges that the pandemic brought.

“Since March 2020, not a single day has been perfect,” said valedictorian speaker Gabriel Hatch. “Every time we were told we were close to getting back to school we were then told we would have to wait a few more months."

He attributes his optimism to his coach who has helped him over these last years.

“It’s tacking every situation with a positive attitude and not accepting defeat before the fight,” said Hatch.

That kind of attitude was necessary as the pandemic months dragged on.

“We all looked past the imperfections of the year and trudged toward graduation … and now the Class of 2021 is graduating despite everything that has been against us,” he said.

Lakewood High School staff recognized the burdens put upon this senior class that go above what is asked of most graduating students.

“You all have done an incredible job navigating through the territory that was the 2020-21 school year,” said Jeanette Grisham, Lakewood High School principal.

“In normal times it is an accomplishment, but in these times, it is an amazing feat for all of you,” she said.

Staff speaker Dan Teeter said he admires the students for their perseverance throughout the year.

“I know this final year is not what you might have dreamt of when you were younger,” said Teeter. “Remote learning, new technology and hybrid classes, and so on. You’ve been isolated. You’ve been unsure of what might happen next, but you found a way."

Class speaker Colton Dune said that he will remember the people he went to school with more than any other part of school through.

“The reality is you’re not going to vividly remember the things you’re supposed to do in school,” said Dune, who encouraged his fellow graduates to go after achievements but not to be consumed by the pursuit of them.

“I gave practically all my time to school … preparing for a future far down the road,” said Dune. “I was getting what I wanted but I wasn’t feeling satisfied."

Dune said his memories of friends, teachers and other staff is what has made the most impact on him.

“If you get lost in the search for success and validation, you’re going to miss out on the little things that make life great,” he said. “Like freezing your butt off in the homecoming parade every year."

Valedictorian speaker Keegan Bach encouraged his fellow graduates to think about to what they will remember as well.

“Think about your first classroom experience versus your last. Think about all the influences you have had that have had an impact on your life,” said Bach.