"The class of 2023 has quite the story to tell."
Those were the words of North Callaway High School graduating senior Sarah Chapman, who was a senior speaker at Thursday's graduation ceremony.
North Callaway's Class of 2023 graduated 86 students.
Chapman said that the Class of 2023 "built unique bonds that only those from a small school can understand."
She described the graduating class as a family.
"We have our fights, but we also have our celebrations," Chapman said. "We cheer at our teams conference and district wins, and mourn each others personal losses and tragedies. We truly have been through thick and thin together, and I do not think that is something to take for granted."
Chapman spoke about some of the challenges the Class of 2023 faced, largest among them the COVID-19 pandemic.
She said that throughout this challenge, the graduating seniors stuck together.
"North Callaway Class of 2023, I wish you all the very, very best. Congratulations guys, we did it," Chapman said.
Alana Todd was another senior speaker at the ceremony.
"Today we join the ranks of countless individuals who have walked before us and laid the foundation for our success," she said.
Todd said the Class of 2023 persevered through many challenges, and emerged stronger than ever.
"We have learned to balance our academic pursuits with our personal lives, to overcome our fears and doubts, and to pursue our passions with unwavering determination," Todd said.
She added that the graduating seniors owe a debt of gratitude to their families and friends for their support.
She also thanked all of the teachers and mentors who challenged and inspired them.
"Class of 2023, don't forget that the only way to do great work is to do what you love," Todd said.
The final senior speaker was Trenton Lairmore.
In his address, Lairmore spoke about what makes a hero.
"For me, a hero is a person who inspires you to see the greatness in others. They help you believe in yourself and see your worth as a human being," Lairmore said.
He said heroes make you feel special and strong. He added that everyone has worth, and you should help others find their worth in life.
"Be thankful for the heroes in your lives that have taken this journey with you," Lairmore said.
He closed by thanking his friends, family and teachers for their support throughout his life.
Lance Foulk, North Callaway High School principal, recognized graduating seniors for their academic honors and achievements.
Foulk recognized students in A+, National Honor Society, FFA, Student Council, sports and activities. He also recognized those in attendance who were former graduates of North Callaway High School.
The salutatorian was Sarah Chapman. The salutatorian was second in class GPA rank.
The valedictorian was Ellie Pezold. The valedictorian was first in class GPA rank.