BILLINGS – West High School held its commencement at the MetraPark Rimrock Auto Arena Sunday afternoon, with 410 celebrating this year.
Teachers cheered for the 2019 graduates before they walked into the arena for the processional.
Some of the graduates also had one last chance to play in the jazz band and sing with the Meistersingers.
After receiving their diplomas, students said goodbye to their teachers.
Before that, their classmates had some good words as they go on to their next adventures.
“I’m not sure what the answer is for what all of us should do and maybe some of you don’t have the answers either,” said Sara Jensen, valedictorian. “But isn’t that the exciting part? Now is the time when we get to take risks, figure out what this life thing is all about and become something that will influence our future generations.”
“I hope when we run into each other at the store in a few years, we will still wave and say hi,” said Isabelle Wagler, valedictorian. “Even if we weren’t close in high school because we all shared this incredible experience at West High and we will forever be a Golden Bear family. Thank you all for an amazing four years. And from the bottom of my heart, I wish you all a lifetime of happiness.”
Principal Kelly Hornby announced the names of students who have committed to serving the country in the United States military after graduation.
Twelve students received an ovation from their classmates and others attending.
