Charlo graduates 17: "We turned out pretty okay”

Charlo High graduated 17 seniors Sunday from what Hayden Smith described as “the most unforgettable chapter of our lives.”

In his welcome address, he described his classmates as “so much more than just a class of 2024, but rather the family that grew up together in 2024.

“I wouldn't trade a moment of the last 13 years spent here for anything. I love the way that each and every one of you carries such love and compassion for those close to us, and I find it hard to believe that any graduation ceremony could mark the end of that,” he said.

His appreciation for the Class of ’24 and the small school that educated and embraced them for 13 years was echoed by Salutatorian Karly Alder.

“We've been through so much together, facing all kinds of challenge and triumph, and I'm immensely proud to stand alongside each and every one of you,” she said. “We've had a wild rollercoaster ride, but in the end, we turned out pretty okay.”

Valedictorian Hayden Hollow praised the contributions of teachers, coaches, parents and community members. “Your endless encouragement and inspiration are what genuinely make Charlo a fantastic school and an even better community,” he said.

He then turned to Steve Love, who is wrapping up his final year as superintendent, and quipped, “Mr. Love, I hope we’re not the reason that you retired.”

Former Charlo English teacher and coach Eli Redeker was guest speaker, and predicted positive futures for the young men and women in front of him. “We have people in this group that are going to go do amazing things,” he said. “Pursue a college education, continue on in athletics, blaze new trails, break down barriers. We have a female wrestler going to college to wrestle – that's something that wasn't even possible.”

As their teacher, he said he was “shocked by their kindness, their generosity, their loyalty, their curiosity, and their intelligence.”

Those traits, he said, would serve them well wherever life took them.

Or, as Karly Alder, advised her peers: “It's your turn to shape your own success.”

    Surprised dad accepts a rose from his son, Kaden Bailey, during Sunday's graduation ceremony at the Charlo gym. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)
  

    Exuberant graduates Hayden Smith on the shoulders of Titan Inman head for the exit following Charlo's graduation ceremony Sunday. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)
  

    Aubry Sharbono and Taylea Lund begin their commencement march during Charlo High's graduation ceremony, held Sunday. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)
  

    Charlo grad Darcy Coleman gives her grandmother, Anita, a big hug and a rose during Sunday's graduation celebration. (Kristi Niemeyer/Leader)