Sidney High School Sends Off 2021 Grads

The Sidney High School gymnasium was busy with friends, family and supporters as the Class of 2021 was officially recognized as graduates.

The afternoon started with a video presentation of graduates. Following the video, the Processional was played by Music Teacher Jennifer Mead as the senior made their way to the front of the room. Following the Processional and National Anthem performed by Sidney State of Mind, Sidney School District Superintendent Jay Ehler gave his welcome speech.

“These graduates have certainly lived through some interesting times,” Ehler said.

He referred to the economic changes that came with the Cabela's sale to Bass Pro, and then the coronavirus.

“Most of us have heard the saying 'it take a village to raise a child,'” he said.

He said the last couple of years proves the Sidney community stands with its youth.

“These young men and women are ready to great their future,” he said. “Your journey is filled with memories that will last a lifetime.”

Following Ehler's welcome address, the class Salutatorian Peyton Lewis was recognized.

The 2021 Valedictorian is Adarsha Ganesan.

She talked about spending a week working on her speech, which doesn't fit her personality as someone who writes stories the night before it is due, she said.

“For most of you, this is the most you will hear me speak without laughing,” she said.

She said she changed the speech several times while quietly battling with living up to everyone else's expectations. Her final speech changed the direction of her thought.

"We got past COVID to the point we have a mask-optional (directive),” she said. “We persevered because we put in the effort.”

She offered a question to the graduates and family.

“If you had the last slice of your favorite pizza, would you eat it all at once, or slowly?”

She encouraged students to enjoy life.

Academic Awards were presented by Principal Chris Arent with the assistance of Ehler and Board of Education President Tom Von Seggern.

The motto of the Class of 2021 is “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined. – Henry David Throeau.” Class officers are Morgaan Jaggers (president), Karly Sylvester (vice-president), Peyton Lewis (secretary) and Aleigha Wachtel (treasurer). Class Song is “Dream On,” by Aerosmith. Class sponsors were Ryan Plummer and Tess Plummer.