The Bonduel High School Class of 2015 will always hold a special place in the heart of first-year Principal Jane Wonderling.
Wonderling encouraged the 79 students at Friday’s commencement ceremoney to continue to push themselves, to stretch their limits and to continue to develop as they depart the confines of BHS.
“This is my first year and I am proud of the Class of 2015,” Wonderling said. “You need to continue to learn and grow and try something new. Don’t be afraid to get outside of your comfort zone.”
Wonderling replaced Patrick Rau, who was elevated to school superintendent following the retirement of Peter Behnke last year.
Daniel Tauchen, class valedictorian and president, encouraged his classmates to take time to savor the special moments. He thanked the faculty, staff and coaches for the successes he achieved in high school.
“Take the time to thank someone,” said Tauchen, who will attend Michigan Technological University in the fall.
Salutatorian Deanna Zernicke emphasized not taking anything for granted.
“Take the time to enjoy the little things in life and take any opportunities that are given to you and live in the moment,” she said. “Be thankful and cherish what you have at this very moment because the future is never promised. …
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and that is why it is important to be present.”
Zernicke will attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison to study pre-law and economics.
Faculty commencement speaker Robert Henshaw, the school’s science teacher, told the graduates to not fear failure, to remain positive and to do something they love.
“You have to embrace the process, and become an expert at something,” Henshaw said.
Wonderling agreed, telling the students, after a setback, to "dust yourselves off and move forward.”
