Battle Mountain graduates walk during the processional.
Tony Erquiaga
You never know what Mother Nature is going to throw at you in northern Nevada.
A year ago, temperatures hit nearly 100 degrees, but this past Friday night, a rainstorm struck during the end of the valedictorian speech and the handing of diplomas.
That did not deter the Battle Mountain high School Class of 2023, as they still celebrated their accomplishment, in front of a large crowd of family, friends, teachers and administrators.
After the national anthem by the BMHS choir, Senior Class President Lilliana Haney had the opening welcoming remarks. The valedictorian also had the final words of the night, as she instructed the class in the moving of the tassels, as the rain fell on Tim Knight Field.
“We have worked hard to get to this point and it’s an honor to be standing in front of you as the class president,” she said. “As I look, I am remined of the countless memories we made together over the past four years. From my first day of my freshmen year to the last as a senior, we have laughed, learned and grown so much. But now it is time for us to depart and begin a new chapter in our lives. The future is whatever we make out of it and I have no doubt we will all go on to do great things.”
The Battle Mountain High School choir sings the National Anthem prior to the start of the graduation ceremony.
As the rain started to fall before the handing out of diplomas, first-year Battle Mountain principal Ken Lords told the student to be kind and work hard and to set goal and accomplishments.
“You can accomplish anything you set your mind to,” he added. In a joking fashion he said that some of you set your minds to decorate your caps and that was the most work they have done all year. “So, congratulations.”
Lords presented Shaylee Kraft as the class salutatorian and Haney was selected as the valedictorian.
“I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heart-felt congratulations to each and every one of my fellow graduates for their hard work and perseverance in achieving this incredible milestone,” Kraft told the crowd.
Kraft noted that each student was able to go through the awkward phases of elementary, middle and high school phases but were able to come together tonight to celebrate each other’s unique personalities.
“Our class is blessed with nor only one set of twins but two,” Kraft said. Melany and Vivian (Soto-Garcia) have always been a couple of the sweetest individual I know and will always remember when Erick and Pablo (Piedra) moved to town and they busted down to some crazy music in Mrs. Ayers garage while practicing for a class dance. You could always count on them to leave everyone entertained.”
Battle Mountain class president and valedictorian Lillianna Haney hugs her parents before her speech to the crowd.
Kraft added that the graduates have a wide variety of talent and skills and mentioned a number of students throughout the school, if it’s in the classroom, art room, welding room of the athletic field.
“All in all, I strongly believe that each and everyone of you has a place in this world and I faith that you will contribute to society in one way or another,” Kraft said. Even though we are all moving on and going our separate ways, I hope the memories we hold in our heart keep us together for years to come. There is a time and place for everything. There is no need to rush or force things. What is meant to be will always be. I wish you all the best after graduation and hope to see you again soon”
Haney returned to the stage for her valedictorian speech and noted that she as looking at the entire class in the same place and it may be the last time, they are together.
“As we celebrate our graduation and the end of our high school journey, I can’t help but feel a mix of emotions,” Haney said. “On one hand I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished together. On the other hand, I am sad to say goodbye to the friends and teachers that have become such an important part of my life.”
Haney added that throughout the four years of high school the class has faced many challenges and triumphs, including the stress of tests to college applications and to the excitement of prom and homecoming.
“Here we are having growing stronger and more resilient,” Haney said. “I know we will carry these lessons with us as we move on to the next chapter in our lives. Let’s not forget the fun times too,” she added. “From the Friday nights to the pep rallies. From the late-night meetings in Mrs. Ayers garage, to the post-dance festivities, we have had some amazing memories together.”
As the class prepared to leave high school behind and embark on new adventures, Haney ended with a few words of advice.
“First, never stop learning,” Haney said. Whether you are headed to college or workforce or somewhere else entirely, there is always something new to discover. Knowledge is power. Second, don’t be afraid to take risks and try new things. Life is short. You never know what amazing opportunities will be waiting for you. Finally, always remember the family, friends, teachers and mentors that helped you get to where you are today. What we have accomplished hasn’t been done alone. So, now that we are high school graduates and soon, we are going to say goodbye. There will be hugs and tears and we will do our best to stay in touch and we will be living our own lives and doing our best. Thank you all for sharing this day with me and congratulations to the class of 2023.