CLASS OF 2021

The Hot Springs gymnasium was full Sunday afternoon with family and friends who gathered to honor the graduating class of 2021. Graduating senior Steven Yother welcomed attendees and a salutatory address was given by Bert DeTienne. Valedictorian EmmaRae Rasmussen spoke of her future at University of Arizona and gave an eloquent speech to her fellow graduating classmates, leaving them with a few words of inspiration. "Never stop dreaming, always believe in yourself and step out of your comfort zone," Rasmussen said.

The commencement ceremony continued with guest speaker Justin Wright followed by a rose ceremony where the graduating class dispersed among the crowd handing out red and white roses to family members. The class of 2021 slideshow highlighted each graduate, spotlighting fond memories with a few chuckles and tears from the audience.

There were 18 awards and scholarships presented at Sunday's ceremony, including a Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5159 scholarship that went to Samantha Carr, a $1,500 Valley Banks community scholarship went to Jesse Uski and a $1,000 Reach Higher Montana scholarship went to Ariah Erny.

With assistance from Superintendent Gerald Chouinard, Hot Springs board chairperson Ricky DePoe presented diplomas and Principal Kelly Moore presented the graduating class of 2021.