Photo by chris trent
SENIORS SING ONE LAST SONG BEFORE DEPARTING FROM CHIEF LESCHI SCHOOLS.
There were masses of balloons and flowers, a lot of family and friends, and many tears of joy at the class of 2009 graduation ceremony June 13, in the Chief Leschi Four Seasons Gymnasium.
The class of 2009 proudly graduated 39 students, and the community turned out in full force to see this auspicious occasion. As the students sat in the blue graduation gowns, they were treated to a commencement speech by Billy Frank Jr., who spoke movingly of his battles for rights on behalf of Native Americans. This was followed by a speech from the class’ valedictorian, Michelle Daniels, who graduated with a 3.7 cumulative grade point average and plans on attending Pierce College where she received a scholarship for her tuition costs. The student leadership team spoke of their gratitude for all the support their class had received from staff at the school and from their family members. The team named Sundae Anderson, an English teacher, as the class of 2009’s pick for Teacher of the Year. The students were then given their diplomas, then draped in a Pendleton blanket, and shook hands with distinguished guests including school superintendent Ray Lorton, school board representatives, and tribal council members. A toss of the hat later and the class of 2009 walked out of the gym as high school graduates.
Congratulations to all the graduates, you made it!
