Bernie, MO - The Bernie High School Class of 2020 wanted a traditional graduation to end their high school career. Thirty-five students received their diplomas on Saturday, June 6, 2020. The ceremony was postponed due to COVID-19; however the gathering of family and friends was much smaller in the gym and the students were separated to be in compliance with social distancing.
Cassidy Freed lead the audience and students in the Pledge of Allegiance to open the graduation ceremony.
2020 Class president Taylor Anthony welcomed everyone to the ceremony. She thanked her teachers. "You all made us who we are and made sure to support us in anything we wanted to accomplish. I learned more the past four years than I ever thought I would."
Salutatorian Kaylie Holt received a very special award from High School Principal Brad Botsch during the ceremony. She was the only member of the class to qualify for the honors banquet every year of eligibility from 4th grade to her senior year. Though the class of 2020 did not get an Honor's Banquet this year students were recognized during the ceremony. Those recognized were Shyann Charles, Hannah Cupp, Cassidy Freed, Blake Harty, Nathan Harvey, Kaylie Holt, Kelsey Spitzer, and Emilie Vincent.
Holt was involved Future Business Leaders of America, FCCLA, Sr. Beta Club, Explore Club, Choir, and Pep Club. She was also awarded the President's Award for Academic Excellence.
"My classmates and I have all experienced many different things in our lives, but there are some things that we can all related to, like when someone parked in your unofficially assigned parking spot," commented Holt. Several of the students laughed with her.
She went on to say that BHS has provided all of the students with great opportunities and had helped prepare them for success in the future. "You only live once,"
"So do what makes you happy and don't be afraid to take some chances. But most importantly live life like there is no tomorrow because you never really know if there is one."
Sidney Cobb fought back tears as she addressed her classmates while giving her valedictorian speech. "She is a very accomplished young lady", stated Brad Botsch, Bernie High School principal. She has been involved in Future Business Leaders of America, Scholar Bowl, Pep Club, and Explore Club. She is the 2020 Student Council President, the Senior Class Vice President, and the Sr. Beta Club Vice President.
"Uncertain is the only way to describe the last few months of our high school career," stated Cobb. "COVID-19 ripped away many of the moments. We did not get to experience our senior tip, our senior faculty games, our senior prom, or our last few days together. For a lack of better words, that sucks."
In conclusion Cobb stated, "To the Bernie High School Class of 2020, I cannot even begin to describe how happy I am to know you. I have become so close with so many of you and for that, I am truly grateful. I love you all and I wish you the absolute best in your future. Stay safe and do the amazing things I know you are all capable of doing!"
