Graduates take last, first steps

DECATUR - On a beautiful late May evening, a long journey ended for a group of Decatur High School seniors. Now, a greater journey begins.

For a few, the journey began in pre-school, others in kindergarten, still others in first grade. No matter how their journey began, the 2013 graduation class of Decatur High School’s 12-plus years came to a common end. On May 17 in the high school gym, they came together one last time as a class.

Some may become doctors, scientists or engineers. Others may choose a different path - teachers or soldiers. Whatever path they take, the 28 have one common thread that binds them together: They were educated by the men and women of the Decatur School District.

The graduates entered the gym through the northeast bleacher entrance, walking in single file around the gym while the Decatur High School band played the processional. The honor graduates took their place on stage while their classmates proceeded to their seats in front of the stage.

The program began with the invocation presented by honor graduate Myranda Jackson. Kaula Yang had the honor of leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The band played the Star Spangled Banner followed by the Decatur High School alma mater.

Larry Ben, superintendent of Decatur Schools, gave the welcoming speech. He was followed by Jayme Burden with the salutatorian address. Class president Evan Owens presented the valedictorian address.

A slideshow with images highlighting each graduate from birth through their senior year offered a visual backdrop for the event.

During Owens’ address, a picture of his state championship pole vault appeared on the screen. The room erupted into cheers for his remarkable achievement.

Senior class members received roses to present to their parents, siblings and other family members of their choosing. They ventured into the crowd to seek out their special loved ones. Once this was complete, it was time for the main attraction.

Ben presented the candidates for graduation while members of the Decatur School Board presented the diplomas. School board president Ike Owens, vice president Darlene Holly, and members Aaron Owens, Kevin Smith and Amy Brookshad the honor of greeting each graduate and handing them the piece of parchment the seniors worked so hard to earn.

“Having met all ... requirements of the state of Arkansas and the Decatur School District, I present to you the 2013 graduating class of Decatur High School,” Ben announced after the diploma ceremony finished.

As tradition dictates, on that cue the seniors threw their mortarboards high into the gymnasium.

For the 28 graduates of Decatur High School, the mortarboards settling to the ground marked their first steps into the next chapter of their lives.