By SCOTT MCKIE B.P.
ONE FEATHER STAFF
“Together, we have experienced life, separately we will pursue our dreams and forever our memories will remain,” states the class motto of Cherokee High School’s Class of 2011. A total of seventy-two members of the class graduated in the arena at Cherokee Central Schools on Friday, May 27.
CHS seniors Madison Crowe and Paige Jackson share a laugh prior to the start of the graduation ceremony held in the CHS Arena on Friday, May 27. Both ladies graduated with honors. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather)
“The Class of 2011 will be missed for all they have done for this school and this community,” said Principal Ormsby.
He listed some of the academic accomplishments of the Class of 2011 including:
- Five graduating with highest honors (3.9 GPA or higher) including: Rayna Davis, Kayla Smith, Katlin Bradley, Kelsey Jackson and Johnathon Roper
- Two graduating with high honors (3.75 – 3.8 GPA) including: Tashina Martin and Hannah Youngdeer
- Five graduating with honors (3.5 – 3.74 GPA) including: Jesse Blanton, Madison Crowe, Paige Jackson, Chelsea Martinez, and Danielle Toineeta
“The Class of 2011 will be missed for all they have done for this school and this community,” said Principal Ormsby.
Salutatorian Kayla Smith thanked everyone in the crowd and said she will cherish her time at Cherokee High School. “Thirteen years and some odd months ago, we were little squirts going into our kindergarten classrooms. Now, as I stand here, I wish time would stop. I’m not ready to leave it yet.”
Rayna Davis, valedictorian
“Without family, we would be totally different people,” she continued. “To the class of 2012 – enjoy your time here at Cherokee High School and don’t take it for granted.”
Kayla Smith, salutatorian
Valedictorian Rayna Davis also thanked her family as well as the staff at Cherokee High School and the Cherokee community. “We will remember the teachers that changed our lives. I have no doubt that we will accomplish great things.”
During the evening, several special awards were distributed to outstanding students. Commander Lew Harding, Steve Youngdeer American Legion Post 143, gave the American Legion Certificate of Meritorious Service to Sabrina Taylor.
Katlin Bradley (standing) was recognized for 13 years of perfect attendance in school.
Principal Chief Michell Hicks then presented the Principal Chief’s Awards to Katlin Bradley and Skylar Bottchenbaugh. Dr. Carmaleta Monteith presented the NAIWA Award to Kayla Smith who was then presented the Kiwanis Club Award by Big Cove Rep. Perry Shell.
The final special award given out is one that seems almost impossible to achieve…but, it was possible. Gloria Rattler, Cherokee Central School Board chairperson, presented an award to Katlin Bradley for 13 years of perfect attendance. She never missed one day from kindergarten to graduation.
Ray Kinsland gave the commencement address and said, “Thank you for letting me and my family work with you these high school years. Class of 2011, may you appreciate everyone who helped you get here tonight.”
“You are truly a wonderful group of young ladies and gentlemen,” he continued. “We’re proud of each one of you students here tonight. I sincerely believe our future will be in good hands with you.”
Kinsland left the graduates with a final thought – the motto of the CHS Class of 1980, “What matters is not what lies behind you or what lies in front of you, but what lies within you.”
For more photos of this event, visit:
https://www.theonefeather.com/photo-galleries-2/?album=134&gallery=141
