The Fort Madison High School class of 2024 was celebrated Saturday morning.
At long last, commencement for the “COVID” cohort: those students whose eighth grade and freshman years were affected — but not defined by — a global pandemic.
Following the ‘Pomp and Circ*mstance’ professional, Ben Ramatowski led the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a welcome from FMHS Co-Principal Patrick Lamb, introductions by Teague Smith, class colors, flower and moto by Kiley Bohnenkamp and comments from Superintendent Dr. Erin Slater, followed by FMHS seniors singing ‘Alma Mater.’ Closing the ceremony was Madelyn Gobble leading the moving of tassels.
Slater said the students have shown perseverance, focus and effort, have celebrated successes, accepted failures, challenged and supported each other.
“Today marks the start of another journey. A journey to college, a journey into the service or a journey into a career,” she said. “No matter where your journey begins, greet it with the enthusiasm and perserverance that you showed here at Fort Madison High School.”
Lamb introduced valedictorian Leif Boeding. He said Boeding’s “commitment to academic achievement, his passion for learning and determination that set him apart for a roll model for his peers and an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of knowing him.”
Boeding reminisced about the class of 2024’s freshman year as they navigated their way through COVID.
“Somehow, with all the crazy rules, we persevered thorough a global pandemic,” he said.
He also shared some words of wisdom.
“Essentially, I want to instill in you to continue to be a rock,” he said. “Rocks can be all different shapes, colors and sizes. We are all rocks in our own ways. Rocks are strong and endure all four seasons. They can stand alone or build something when they work together. Be a rock.”
He told about his parents, classmates, coaches, teachers being “rocks.”
“It truly takes a village and I would not be where I am today without their support. Be a rock,” he said. “Believe in yourself. Be ready and be prepared. Be strong physically and mentally. Be different. Adapt to changes.”
He told his classmates “as we all begin to take our next step in life, remember, some of the best plans fail, some of the best plans change and some of the best plans never get started. And some of the best outcomes never follow a created plan. Our journey has not been easy and it isn’t over yet. But we embrace our rock-like traits, we can overcome any challenge thrown our way. In order to create this success, always remember: you can be a rock or a familiar face. You can be a rock for a stranger, but most importantly, you can be a rock for yourself.”
Lamb introduced student body president, Oliver Santiago.
“As student body president, Oliver has demonstrated exceptional leadership, a strong commitment to serving his peers and a genuine enthusiasm for making a positive impact on our school. Oliver’s inclusive approach, innovative ideas and advocacy for student voices have helped foster a sense of unity and belonging within our student body,” he said. “His tireless efforts to enhance school spirit and addressing concerns have made a significant difference in our culture and climate at Fort Madison High School.”
Santiago spoke about the journey the class of 2024 has been on together, from online learning to football games, show choir successes, to fun moments as a group.
“These moments have helped make high school amazing and will stay with us forever,” he said.
He encouraged his classmates to remember “this isn’t the end; it’s the beginning.”
“There’s a whole world out there waiting for us, full of opportunities and challenges. But guess what. We’ve got what it takes to handle it all. We’ve got the knowledge, the skills and the drive to make our mark,” he said. “To my fellow graduates, in the words of Mr. Derek Doherty: Leave it better than when you found it.”
Those words, he said, stuck with him throughout his high school career.
“I hope that hearing this will help you leave the places you go better than how you found them,” he said. “Go make the world more fun, more positive, and an all-around better place. Success isn’t just about what you achieve; it’s about how you treat others and the difference you make in the world.”
School board Vice President Mio Santiago then took the stage.
“Class of 2024, you were the class who lost your eighth grade year. You started school with hybrid learning, Canvas classes and being greeted by Mr. Lamb singing a parody of a Hamilton song. Did you have any idea what you were getting into,” he said. “It’s a wonder you guys have turned out so well. Most of the people here, I think it’s fair to say, when you started your freshman year were worried. We had no idea what your school would look like. We had no idea how education would look in the midst of a pandemic.”
Mio Santiago said people wondered whether the students could handle high school and academics.
“What this four years have shown us, you have shown us you’ve answered that question with a resounding ‘yes, we can handle high school,’” he said. “You all set the bar high in everything you’ve done. Athletics, music, art and academics.”
Lamb had a few closing words. He exhorted the group to embrace the opportunities that lay ahead.
“As you step into the world beyond these halls, remember there are no shortcuts to success. It is the result of diligent preparation, tireless dedication and the resilience to learn from setbacks,” he said. “Welcome challenges as opportunities for growth and let every obstacle you encounter be a stepping stone toward your goals.”
He encouraged them to strive for excellence in all that they do.
“Be the best of whatever you are,” he said. “True greatness is achieved not by comparison to others but by commitment to surpassing your own limits. Do not being defined by others’ expectations. Accept no one’s definition of your life. Define yourself. Embrace your individuality. Pursue your passions and let your unique voice guide you toward your success.”
