May 29, 2025, the WHS class of 2025 walked across the stage at Mt. Saint Mary’s and took their first steps into the real world. Although there were tears, they were joyful tears. Each student worked hard to earn their diploma and enjoyed heartfelt congratulations from family and friends as they exited the venue.
Graduation is always a bittersweet moment, and this year was no exception. Students started arriving around 7:30 and spent most of the morning taking pictures with friends and teachers. 
They marched in two by two and listened attentively while guest speakers wished them well on their journey. Sidharth Parandapalli hoped students would take time to relax and find joy in the pursuit of success, while Guadalupe Peralta Orellano and Trish Kitcher gave a similar message through their performance of “I Hope You Dance”. Dr. Ware closed with heartfelt congratulations, and a tear or two, then graduates walked into the sunset – or at least out of the building onto the lawn.
The halls of WHS were quiet the next day as students adjusted to the seniors absence. Rising seniors took their place at the top of the school hierarchy, while rising juniors and sophomores started settling into their new roles. Each group is eagerly looking forward to the day when they too walk across the stage.
Here’s what to expect when its your turn.
Before graduation day students receive their chords and awards. Students may wear anything they were awarded as a WHS student with their robe. This includes stoles, cords, pins, medals, etc. Some of these are handed out the first day of rehearsal while others are given at the the Senior Award Ceremony later that evening. The first rehearsal is generally very early and takes the longest. Students figure out their seat, find their marching partner, and tell the name readers how to pronounce their name. They practice processing in and processing out while the band practices the marching music. Dr. Ware drills seniors on when to stand up and when to sit down. It’s almost like a wedding rehearsal with a lot more brides, a lot more grooms, and no stilted march. This continues in the second rehearsal with the addition of practice receiving the diploma, shaking hands, and stopping for photos. Since all this practice is hard work, the last rehearsal is followed by the senior picnic.
WHS makes sure every senior knows what to expect as they walk across that stage, and the senior advisors do their best to support graduates. The Class of 2025 graduated successfully, and soon you will too.
