At senior graduation, Mr. Jones hands senior Jessica Byrd their high school diploma, signifying an end to her high school education and the start of her next chapter.

This year, just like previous years, has come to an end and so has the senior graduation which occurred at 7:00 p.m. at the Family Arena on May 20. 

This year’s batch of seniors had many exemplary students who were excited to get out in the world. 

“Honestly, I’m just really happy to escape high school and go into college, pursue my degree, have free time, make my own rules, no curfew. I’m just excited to be an adult and all that,” senior Tumi Amailuk said.

Graduation kicked off with the classic graduation anthem, Pomp and Circumstance, performed by the the Parkway North brass band. The opening speech was performed by Principal David Jones followed by the first of seven representative speeches, including four seniors.

“I thought the speeches went well. They focused on moving forward, appreciating where you are, and understanding who you are,” Jones said.

After this, Jones called out the staff and congratulated the seniors. This was followed by a list of teachers who were retiring, giving the students a last goodbye to their favorite teachers. 

“[Wendy Freebersyser] always made class fun and made sure that we were engaged and just was able to have easy conversations with all the students,” senior Megan Williams said.

Jones then passes the microphone to Sabrina Cosey-Davis, the senior principal, who spoke about adult life, the Parkway North community, and the opportunities that come with both.

“Parkway North High School has served as a great community,” she said. “A reflection of the world you’re about to enter. A world that’s diverse, vibrant, and full of opportunity and some challenges.”

 Afterward, senior Genrique Nuestro took the stage to talk about how leaving high school is bittersweet: people being glad that they can leave but sad that things won’t be the same anymore. 

Finally, the president of the alumni association, made up of previous students who help support the school, mentioned that this year is the 70th year that the district has been open, and the 30th year since the alumni association has been formed. The president then jokingly told the seniors they had no choice but to be a part of the alumni association, giving them a connection to Parkway to remember it by. 

After students got their diplomas, seniors Sarah Ham, Eli Jones, and Morgan Hart all gave their closing speeches. 

“I want to take a moment to appreciate all the family and friends who have come to support the class of 24,” Ham said. “Your encouragement, guidance, and love have been instrumental in shaping our paths and empowering us to achieve our goals.”

To the seniors, from Parkway North, we wish you all the best of luck!