The 129^th annual ceremony to recognize the graduating class of Hays High took place Sunday May 14 at Gross Memorial Coliseum. In attendance were one hundred seventy-seven seniors.

The ceremony began with the traditional processional of “Pomp and Circumstance” as performed by the combined band and orchestra under the direction of Matt Rome. It was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by USD 489 Assistant Superintendent Shanna Dinkel.

Student Council president and vice president Keegan Chapman and Jeanie Balzer then took to the stage to announce several achievements of the class of 2017.

The combined orchestra, band and choirs then performed “An American Hymn” under the direction of Johnny Matlock.

The senior class elected psychology and world history teacher Matt Brooks to speak on behalf of their class. Brooks delivered a speech entitled “If you say you can or you can’t, you’re right.”

After being presented to and accepted by the board of education for the fulfillment of graduation requirements, the class of 2017 took their trek across the stage to accept their diplomas.

Diplomas were presented by USD 489 Board of Education Superintendent John Thissen and Board Vice President Sarah Rankin.

18lgregory@usd489.com