Kimball Area High School graduation will be different this year for area seniors. This year’s senior class has decided to have three commencement speakers, instead of the regular two. As always, two speakers were chosen from honors students. The change is made by having one class representative speaking. This student was chosen through a special election process. KAHS Principal Karen Imholte said a group of students approached her with a proposal to change the graduation procedures. “One part of the senior class students really wanted to speak at graduation and asked why [we chose the speakers this way],” Imholte said. “We then looked at doing something different.” Imholte sat down with a group of 10 students from each senior homeroom. They decided they wanted to have three graduation speakers. Particularly, one speaker from the class who would serve as a class representative and not necessarily be an honors student. After discussing this new concept with the senior class advisor, Howard Bahn, the new policy was put into effect – any senior wishing to speak could nominate themselves by putting their name on the class representative list. Under the new policy, the two honors students with the most votes would speak and the third speaker would be the next top vote getter, whether they were an honor student or a class representative. About seven students choose to put their name on the class representative list. The senior class choose Alanna Bowman and Rachel Stein as their honors student speakers and Amanda Hentges as the class representative. “I really think that this is a good process,” said Bowman. “I think that Amanda has done a lot and she is our class president [so it’s important to have her speak].” After being nominated, each speaker choose a different topic – the past, present or future. Hentges chose the past and will talk about all of the different memories that the class has experienced in elementary and high school. “I am really excited to speak,” said Hentges. Her messages will challenge classmates, “Don’t forget the memories we have made. But, there is more to come.” Stein will talk about the present by discussing events that have happened throughout the past school year. Specifically, she is working on a parody about the memories and frustrations of the class’s senior year. Finally, Bowman will be speaking about the future. “This is the one that I wanted,” said Bowman. “I am going to read the Dr. Suess book ‘Oh, the places you will go.’” Her message will encourage students to “find out what you like to do and find someone to pay you to do it.” Commencement addresses will be given at KAHS graduation which will take place Thursday, June 5 at 7 p.m. at the high school.
