Friends, family and well wishers packed Sidney High School's gymnasium to overflowing Sunday as the Class of 2018 closed the book on their high school days.
With the motto "Chase your dreams, but always know the road that'll lead you home again," by Tim McGraw, 93 seniors accepted their diplomas in the ceremony.
Superintendent Jay Ehler welcomed graduates and guests, then shared thoughts for them to remember.
"Your next chapter is about to begin - a chapter filled with the adults you are becoming," Ehler said. "Soon you will be making more of your own decisions, you'll be solving your own problems, and you'll be deciding which road to travel.
"It sounds exciting, and it will be, but it will also have its challenges. When you face those challenges I hope you will remember your years at Sidney schools, and the lessons you've learned at home and at school. It will give you strength and courage.
"Have faith in yourself, and the unique individual that you are. Be true to yourself. "Instead of the world changing you, you go out and change the world."
Ehler also encouraged the students to find what they love and be passionate about it. He also encouraged them to be kind and considerate to others. "There is a great need for caring people in our world."
Mitch Porter was recognized at class salutatorian, then the Sidney Singers offered a rendition of "Lean on Me."
After academic awards were presented to those with a GPA of 3.5 or more, scholarships were announced. Between them, class members were awarded just shy of 250 scholarships.
Class Valedictorian Charlie Brockhaus brought forth tears and laughter with her address, which included emotional thanks to her own parents for their guidance.
In recognizing her classmates, Brockhaus set the bar of expectation high.
"Our class is very intelligent and we have a great future ahead of us," Brockhaus said. "I cannot wait to see where we will be in the future and what we can accomplish."
Brockhaus also admonished "there will be bumps in the road, but trust yourself."
One by one class members accepted their diplomas from School Board President Tom Von Seggern, their celebration made complete by throwing their caps in the air.
The class flower was a white dove rose; class color - red, black and white; class song - "Life is a Highway" by Rascal Flats. Class officers were: President, Kara Birner; Vice President, Julia Everetson; Secretary - Emma Tuzicka; and Treasurer, Kylie Rosdail.
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