The 2024 Graduation Ceremony was held in the Event Center and began with the graduates walking in one by one, filling their seats in front of the stage, and waiting patiently for the moment they would get to move that tassel to the other side.
Berkeley Caple opened the ceremony by reminding the graduates that just 4 short years ago, their world was rocked by 2020 and they had to adjust and overcome all obstacles.
Mr. Barton thanked staff and faculty for making the school year a success and for coming together to make this ceremony special.
Salutatorian, Jackson Rue, thanked the teachers for their guidance and the parents for sticking by them. He reminded the class that they had been there for each other for 12 years and charged the class to go out and do good things whether they are going to college, trade school or the workforce.
Mr. Barton spoke directly to the graduates reminding them that the future is created, it doesn't just happen. Among the many points of advice he shared, Mr. Barton reminded them to never underestimate the impact of a single individual and to act with integrity.
Valedictorian, Shelby Blansett, shared that it had been her goal from the 5th grade to become the Valevictorian - I did not misspell that :) She eventually learned that she was striving to become the Valedictorian. Shelby went on to thank the teachers who had made a special impact on her during her high school years. Reflecting on her journey with her classmates, she reminded classmates that each and every one of them would remember different things because they are unique. Experiences shape you into the person you become. She charged the class to dream boldly and to chase their aspirations.
Mr. Martindale accepted the recommendation from Mr. Barton to distribute diplomas and the graduates were called one by one to receive their diploma from the GISD Board of Trustees.
Makena Fady closed the ceremony by expressing gratitude to everyone at GISD, family and friends. She commended the community and school district for everything they do to set themselves apart to be the best. She charged her class to do the very best for others.
Graduates sang the school song, moved the tassel, threw the hats, and exited the Event Center for the very last time as a GHS student.
If you missed the ceremony, we recorded it for you. You may view it here: https://www.youtube.com/live/-UFVpfuMXlc?si=nJywlPiY5fAiwoZy
Graduation Program: https://5il.co/2mtnb
Photos are available to download:
Marion Cole Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/marion_cole/albums/
OurGunter: https://4cmediagroup.smugmug.com/OurGunter/GHS-Class-of-2024-Graduation
**Be sure to thank them and give them the proper credit when using their photos.
All graduation photos used by Gunter ISD are from OurGunter and Marion Cole