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Verbena seniors were excited for graduation. (JOYANNA LOVE | ADVERTISER)

Verbena High School seniors ready for graduation. (JOYANNA LOVE | ADVERTISER)

A graduate receives her diploma. (JOYANNA LOVE | ADVERTISER)

A graduate receives his diploma. (JOYANNA LOVE | ADVERTISER)

By JOYANNA LOVE | Managing Editor

Verbena High School honored the class of 2022 on May 24.

The celebration featured speeches by one of the Valedictorians Caitlin Smith and Salutatorian Laliah Benjamin as well as musical presentations by the sophomore choir and Valedictorian Emilee Hayes. Madison Bryant was also a valedictorian for the class.

“Today, when we walk out of those doors, we are adults heading out to start our lives,” Smith said. “This is a major goal that we have accomplished.”

She said this milestone highlights the students’ commitment and perseverance.

Smith encouraged her fellow graduates to continue to have these attributes in their adult life.

Benjamin, who also served as class treasurer, said she was “beyond grateful to be asked to give a speech” during graduation.

“We have finally ended that great chapter of high school that we started four years ago,” she said.

She thanked the school staff for helping each of the students reach this milestone.

“I know all of you are capable of making something amazing of yourselves and I know all of you will go far in life,” Benjamin said.

She thanked her classmates for the memories, and everyone’s parents for their hard work.

Verbena Assistant Principal Jacob Garnett thanked all of those who have helped the Verbena graduates reach this goal of high school graduation.

“We are extremely proud of the success you have made with the opportunities you were offered,” Garnett said. “Tonight, you start the next chapter of your lives. You will undoubtedly face challenges, but know that God never gives us more than we can bear.”

He encouraged students to pursue their dreams but also reassured them that it was all right for their dreams to change.

“It is never too late to change your path,” Garnett said.

He emphasized the importance of the graduates finding something they enjoy and doing their best at it.

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