2009 Graduation

Graduation Summary

 

Helena High 2009 graduation was a success. Guest speakers included Dr. Bruce Messinger, PhD., Rev. George Harper, Senator Max Baucus and retiring teacher John Hartman. The ceremony started with the processional of graduates marching in the Carroll College gym to the tune of “Pomp & Circumstance” played by the High School Band. The class was escorted in by the junior class officers, President Kristen Ingman and Vice President Anna Hill.

 

The national anthem was sung by Chrys West. Dr. Bruce Messinger then gave the opening welcome followed by the Rev. George Harper giving the reflection. Rev. Harper's short humorous insights were well received.

 

The valedictorians and the salutatorians were then introduced. This was followed by the song “Defying Gravity” sung by the Helena High School Starlighters and directed by Dr. Steve Michelson.

 

The Class Reminiscence was next. The theme was fifty years ago and fifty years future. The theme was related to Senator Max Baucus, who was a graduate of Helena High, class of 1959. The sixteen valedictorians each took a part in the presentation.

 

Senator Max Baucus was then introduced by the Senior Class President, Ana Haynes. The Senator spoke about his world travels and how it made him realize that the world was shrinking and that we are part of a global community. He also made the point that everyone has a role in helping others.

 

Aaron Conn, senior class vice president, then introduced retiring teacher John Hartman. Mr. Hartman served forty years in teaching. Mr. Hartman reflected on some of his interesting moments in teaching. He also made the point of how important the class of 2009 will be in shaping America's future.

 

Eric Koch and Chris Vogel then performed the song “Breaking In”. This was then following by the class valedictorians and salutatorians reading the class roll and the presentation of diplomas.

 

The ceremony ended with the presentation of the class of 2009 by Principal Greg Upham and the singing of “You Are My Sunshine”.

 

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2009 Valedictoricans

Kelsey Anthony Amy Bischoff Erinleigh Caughron Gregory Elison Paige Esposito Kevin Ferris kevin Ferriter Samantha Foster

Jonhathan Lane Josephine Meis Aven Satre Meloy Michael Skerda Rachel Smith Eric Speer Andrew Spencer Jacob Staley

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Salutatorians

• Kathleen Bush
• Brianna Niefhoff
• Hannah Weber