Hot Springs celebrates, shares memories

The 2024 graduating class of Hot Springs High School received their diplomas, remembered a friend, and received scholarships on Saturday. Eleven seniors were present with the twelfth classmate missing from the ceremony. Jody Page, who passed away last fall, was honored by teachers and classmates as they recalled memories of their friend and student who was physically absent from their final class gathering.

Valedictorian Lauryn Aldridge spoke about Page in her speech. "With open hearts and open minds we cherish the times we spent together." Guest Speaker Jason Colyer said he was reluctant to speak at first. "I said yes to speaking. These students are COVID survivors. We survived that year together when they were freshmen. Then last fall we lost Jody. It was a difficult time that shook me to my core," He said. "We fell together and picked one another up. These students helped give me the resilience I needed to face my own fears." Colyer told the class to go forth with confidence, "knowing you are equipped with knowledge."

Guest speaker Brenda Haase talked about the senior trip to the Oregon coast and of the struggles she faced as a new teacher to Hot Springs in 2018. The students were in the seventh grade that year. "You guys helped me become the teacher I am today. After that first year, I didn't think I could continue. I am glad that I did." Haase recollected the difficult time she had with the junior high class and their challenging behaviors. "Savor this time in your life and enjoy your freedom," she instructed her students one last time. She also advised parents to look after their kids as the transition from high school can often be one of the most difficult periods of life. "I love you guys, good luck and God bless you," Haase concluded.

During the rose ceremony, the class took roses to their parents and special people in their lives. This loving gesture brought many tears. This was followed by a class slideshow. Photos of the graduating class through the years of their lives showed the audience how far they have come.

Several students received over 20 awards and scholarships, hosted by Nick Pavelich and guest presenters. Charlie Munday from the Thompson Falls Elks presented the $5,000 Jack Esler Trade Scholarship to Quincy Styles-DePoe. "Jack was a veteran and Elks member who wanted to provide scholarships to students in Sanders County," Munday said. Michael Marrinan received the Montana State University Premier scholarship of $12,000. Other scholarships ranged between $400 and $3,000. Local scholarships included the Elsie Dondanville and the Harlee Salmi Memorial Scholarships presented by Taylor Salmi to DePoe and Aldridge for $1,000 each. Both students received several scholarship awards. Other recipients included Amy McDaniels, Clint Lien and Anjaleah Sheridan.