The collective and individual successes, failures and challenges of the Bonduel High School class of 2026 were noted by several speakers at the May 22 graduation ceremony.
Salutatorian Hailey Spates was the first to mention them.
“No two journeys to this stage were alike,” she said.
Spates recounted that in the small graduating class, many of the students grew up together, shared classes, shared teachers and shared memories of growing up in the small, tight-knit community.
“But even with all that in common, our experiences were completely different. Some of us found our place early on, surrounded by friends and sports. Others took a little longer to figure out. Others faced challenges that pushed us, shaped us and made us stronger in ways we might not always see,” she said.
“Here’s what matters most about today. No matter what your experience looked like, you’re here. You made it, and that means something. Success isn’t just about grades, awards or titles. It’s about persistence. It’s about showing up even when things aren’t perfect. It’s about continuing forward even when the path isn’t always easy.
“Today, all of our different stories, every challenge, every success, every moment comes together in the same place. This stage. This moment. This accomplishment.”
Her message was later echoed by valedictorian Mariah Wondra and social studies teacher James Radish.
One of the traditions of the Bonduel School Board is that the newest member addresses the graduates. This year, that honor fell on Ashley Pierce.
She said that, as a new mother, she discovered children’s books, often contain prophetic messages.
She shared three of them with the students.
• To get something out of your community, you have to put something into it.
• There has never has been, nor ever will be, another person just like you.
• Don’t allow yourself to become stuck out of fear.
Wondra noted the many accomplishments of the class of 2026, including the highest class ACT score in years, solo and ensemble awards, appearances at state WIAA tournaments, one-of-a-kind art projects and more.
She also touched on the challenges overcome by the class and by individual students. She said her classmates overcame the challenges, learned from them and became stronger because of them.
“Let your goals drive you, but don’t let them define you,” she said. “Down the road, if you come up short, know that it’s OK. Life isn’t simply a matter of wining or losing unless you let it be. Don’t be afraid to set the bar high.
“Take the time to just enjoy life.”
kpasson@newmedia-wi.com
Mariah Wondra, the Bonduel High School class of 2026 valedictorian, reminded her classmates – and all those in attendance – that their goals can drive them, but they shouldn’t define them. (Kevin Passon | NEW Media)
Elena Schultz, Bonduel High School 2026 class president, welcomes friends, family, classmates, school staff and the community to the May 22 graduation ceremony in the school gym. (Kevin Passon | NEW Media)
Griffin Uelmen, a member of the Bonduel High School class of 2026, joins band members one last time for several pieces of music prior to the start of the May 22 graduation ceremony. (Kevin Passon | NEW Media)
