Scott City graduates show pride, personality during ceremony

The Scott City graduating class showed their family and friends who attended their commencement ceremony Sunday they're proud to be who they are -- colorful and talented.

More than half of the 87 graduates decorated their mortar boards with photographs, gems or feathers and a student-produced musical act entertained the commencement's audience before the presentation of diplomas.

Many of the students said they styled their graduation caps with their friends as a way to reminisce about their four years in high school.

"I'm excited to graduate," said Katie Diebold, a member of the National Honor Society. "At the same time I want to cry my eyes out. I don't want to separate from my friends."

Diebold was one of numerous 2010 graduates who participated in athletics and said that her class was a "different kind of class."

Colorfully decorated caps dot the floor during Scott City High School's 2010 Commencement in the school gym on Sunday, May 23. (KRISTIN EBERTS)

They worked hard, she said, and were always focused on success. Diebold is most proud of her accomplishments in volleyball; the Scott City team took first place at a state competition this year. She'll begin a pre-dentistry program at Southeast Missouri State University in the fall and hopes to become an orthodontist.

Scott City High School principal Michael Johnson mirrored Diebold's comments about the 2010 class, saying they were a determined group who were focused on doing well in academics and athletics.

In addition to producing a state-winning volleyball team, numerous students placed at a state track meet Saturday and won a baseball championship several years ago. More graduates than ever were recipients of scholarships and have made plans to attend college, Johnson said.

"They have set an example of what it truly means to be a student at Scott City High School," he said.

Valedictorian Lindsey Hadley and graduating senior Rachel Reed, who gave a brief introduction speech, brought the graduates' attention to the lessons high school taught them and all of their accomplishments.

"We have learned many lessons ... the most important lesson is to accept each other and who we are on the inside," Hadley said. "We became leaders ... we always went above and beyond what was required."

Reed acknowledged all parents and Scott City high school teachers for their support and offered fellow graduates a simple bit of advice.

"Always listen to and follow your heart. ... Never forget where you came from," she said.

ehevern@semissourian.com

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