The sun has officially set on another school year for the Carbon School District, and the seniors of Carbon High School ended their high school careers on Wednesday, May 22, with their commencement ceremony.

Gail Scoville, a teacher at Carbon High opened up the ceremony by saying,” Graduates, you have worked tirelessly, overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities to arrive at this pivotal moment. Your dedication and perseverance have paid off. And today we acknowledge all your hard work and commitment…I have no doubt your future will be bright and full of promise.”

Allison Wright, the senior class president took the podium to speak about the importance of slowing down and appreciating the small things,” Before you start high school, just about everyone, and I mean everyone, tells you the same thing, “don’t rush it, it goes by so quick.” We didn’t believe them, but now I’m looking back and it really does.” spoke Wright,” The funny thing about lasts is they are not an end, but a beginning… We will always be asked the same question,” did you have any regrets?” Not in a million years would I like to change anything.”

Eric Holt, one of the Salutatorians, talked about the appreciation graduates should show to their parents,” Whether it’s family by birth or family by choice, we all should be thanking them for where we are today. Don’t forget to show your parents you love them, a hug never hurt anyone.”

Cameron Jones, Salutatorian, spoke on the impact that the teachers of Carbon High had on their schooling careers,” I have always had a deep respect for teachers, you put up with so much malarkey and you deal with it all with a smile. I’m going to miss you all.”

Ada Bradford, the class of 2024 Valedictorian, took those in attendance on a spoken tour of Carbon High,” As we begin our descent into the school, now would be a great time to get out your sunglasses, the glaring sun has been known to blind an unsuspecting student or two as they are making their way to class. When opening the school doors, take caution, as they are much heavier than they look and a direct hit can knock someone out.” Jones ended by saying,” We hope that not only this ride, but the past four years has been a memorable journey that you will look back on for years to come.” 

This year’s commencement speaker was Paige Peterson, a Justice on the Utah Supreme Court and a graduate of both Carbon High and the College of Eastern Utah, now known as Utah State University Eastern. “We can’t see exactly what the future holds for us. But over the last few decades, I’ve learned a few things that I think can get you closer to knowing that your life can be meaningful and happy and aligned with who you are.” Peterson continued saying,” As you make your way through life, ask yourself these questions. First, what’s interesting to me? Second, what matters to me? And third, what are my strengths? These questions have been the guides that I’ve used to make decisions in my life.”

Castle Country Radio would like to congratulate the Carbon High School class of 2024 and wish them good luck on their next adventures.