Clear skies for Chester High Graduation
By Gregg Scott
Staff Writer
All the worry and anxiety caused by weather forecasts disappeared as the Lake Almanor residents sat down under clear blue skies on the Chester High football field for the graduation ceremonies of the Class of 2023. The field seating was pretty much filled up by the time the seven o’clock event was about to begin and the Junior-Senior Band, under the direction of Dr. Jane Brown, was ready to play ‘Pomp and Circumstance’ as the graduates and staff marched to the platform.
After a short opening welcome, special dedication and awards to the Co-Valedictorians and Salutatorian, Co-Valedictorians Faith Oswald and Sophia Arredondo each addressed the audience with memories of their experiences with the ‘Class of 23’ and the benefits of growing up in a close-knit community. They both expressed thanks to their classmates, many of which have been together since kindergarten, for all the support and fun times they have shared. ‘The fact that this class may be pretty small (16) but they are all destined to do big things’ was mentioned by several of the speakers.
After the Salutatorian Address by Ava Townsend, Honor Awards by Principal David Andreasen and Senior Speech by Amelia Finkbeiner it was time for the parent thank you and presentation of roses to the families. Upon the presentation of the Chester High Graduating Class of 2023 and declaration by Principal Andreasen that they have met all the requirements for graduation the class was accepted by Jessica Stone on behalf of the Plumas Unified School District. The award of diplomas was announced by Principal Andreasen and cheerfully handed out by PUCD Trustee Chelsea Harrison, Chester High VP Meghan Whalen and Athletic Director Terry Hernandez.
Once all the grades had simultaneously completed their “Turning of the Tassel” they were indeed ready to show their delight with the traditional toss of the ca
Beautiful blue skies set the tone for the throng of parents, relatives, friends and Lake Almanor Basin residents as they ready for the Chester High graduation for the Class of 2023. Photo by Gregg Scott
The Chester Jr/Sr High Band, under the direction of Dr. Jane Brown, awaits the signal to accompany the graduates with the graduation march, ‘”Pomp and Circumstance.” Photo by Gregg Scott
As the music starts the Chester High staff and graduates start the march across the field to the graduation stage. Photo by Gregg Scott
Caps in the air are a fitting gesture to express the joy of the moment for a job well done and a fine ceremony. Photo by Gregg Scott
