GRANGER – Thirtyfive seniors from Granger High School walked across the stage last week at their graduation ceremony Saturday, May 27, at the Taylor ISD Event Center, 3131 N. Main St.
“Between their athletic accomplishments to the academic accomplish- ments to the top 10 being so close, they just set themselves apart,” Shane Wagner, GHS principal said. “Every class has something to strive for. They are special.”
Six of the seven school board members had seniors who graduated, which Wagner said was “something special this year.”
The ceremony began and ended with prayer. Thomas Hall, a student of the graduating class, welcomed everyone to the evening.
Salutatorian Alexandra Harwell took to the podium sharing her gratitude for her parents, teachers and coaches support. Harwell’s speech was sentimental and funny.
“I believe my parents are pretty awesome to have not just one but two salutatorian kids,” she said. “However, my dad always told me that second place is first place loser. But I think he can make an exception this time?”
Valedictorian Gabriella Ramirez then approached the podium to encourage her fellow classmates to push past limits.
“I would like to thank my own graduates for the past six years of endless memories, tears and friendships. But graduating isn’t all about the sadness and leaving behind a capsule of memories, but also the excitement of beginning new chapters of life, and discovering our true place in this world,” said Ramirez.
Wagner fueled the crowd’s cheering with a message of upholding truth and honesty.
“You have the right to be the best you can be,” he said. “May you lead by example, be confident in your abilities, take risks, (and) keep… learning from your mistakes. Only you will be able to judge the success of your life.”
His voice boomed across the auditorium as he announced, “I hereby certify (you) as graduates of Granger High School.”
Each student walked across the stage with pride. They met a faculty member at the center for a brief and unique handshake before receiving their diplomas and moving their tassels.
Danny “DJ” McClelland entertained the crowd and his fellow seniors with a backflip as he walked across the stage.
To cap off the event, students gathered back below the stage mingling with friends and family in the audience.
With one gallant burst of energy, caps flew into the air as seniors said goodbye to Granger High School.
