The Salem Community High School Class of 2025 was called one of the most accomplished during Sunday graduation. Superintendent Dr. Brad Detering outlined many achievements.
“This is one of the most accomplished classes both academically and athletically in the entire time I’ve been superintendent,” Detering said. “Just when you think their capacity for excellence may have been reached, the class of 2025 seems to look around and say, ‘What’s next?’ If you take a look at the white stools there are 35 students graduating summa cum laude this year, an all-time record. There are 17 Illinois state scholars, the most in the area.”
Detering says the class went through immeasurable grief and through that pain have risen to unparalleled success. He then gave the graduates a charge to go out and leave their mark on the world, noting everyone will be watching to see what is next.
SCHS Choir performs for graduation. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
Two teachers were recognized on their retirement, Stacey Beavin after 31 years at SCHS and Cris Rector with 25 years of service. Principal John Boles is retiring after 31 years at SCHS, the last 16 as principal.
Boles was surprised when band member Olivia Howe announced the band was dedicating one of their songs ‘A Place Like Home’ to him.
“As we know, today is about our graduates. The band would like to shift focus just a moment and thank someone who contributes so much to making the halls of SCHS a little brighter,” Howe said. “Someone who, like our graduates, will be retiring and leaving the school after this year. Mr. Boles has done so much for this school and has impacted so many students’ lives. You can tell even from one interaction connections and relationships are meaningful to him. He finds it important to not only talk to students, but to show up for them and encourage them. Mr. Boles, while we know the school will continue to thrive, you will be cherished and missed in SCHS history.”
The SCHS band performs during graduation. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
After the ceremony, Boles says he has been blessed, very blessed, and will miss the school and gym.
Jeryn Haarmann provided the Reflections for the class. She noted how they began the first semester wearing masks due to COVID-19 before returning to normal conditions.
Jerryn Haarman provides reflections during graduation. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
“It wasn’t always easy,” Haarmann said. “At times it felt impossible, but we did it. We excelled at it. We will never be asked to cover our faces in shame. We are the proud class of 2025. Thank you.”
The Future Aspirations of the Class was presented by Laura Burge.
Laura Burge presents future aspirations of the class. Photo by Bruce Kropp.
“Graduation is not just an ending, but rather the beginning of a new chapter with countless opportunities,” Burge said. “Whether attending college, serving our country in the military, or joining the workforce, each of us is going to begin our next adventure. With each step that we take in the direction of new opportunities, we will also be faced with new challenges. With that being said, I firmly believe that we graduate prepared to embrace these challenges.”
A total of 156 students graduated, including December early graduates.
There was a moment of silence for the late Wesley Hunter who would have been in the graduating class. A diploma with his name was read where he would have been in line to pick it up.
