2023 Clinton County Graduation

GRADUATION 2023

“There are always ups and downs... focus on the good times we had”

Good afternoon, and, on behalf of the senior class, I would like to thank everyone that has helped us get to this special moment.

To the administration that has made all of the tough calls to keep us directed and informed, thank you. To the maintenance and janitorial staff that keep our schools clean and presentable, thank you. To the lunch ladies that make sure we get plenty of food throughout the day, thank you. And, thank you to our two retirees, Mr. Pennington and Mr. Wilson. These role models have sacrificed so much for us and our education. Mr. Pennington has lost his voice on multiple occasions trying to teach us all how to sing, and Mr. Wilson has lost his fingers trying to teach us about shop safety. Thank you for your years of service, and we are all happy for you, no matter how hard it is to see you go. To the teachers that have tried their hardest to teach us, regard-

less of our complaints, for the extra hours given to us in the form of study groups and practice for extracurriculars, thank you. To all the families of graduates today, for all the support throughout the years, for standing by our sides and keeping us safe, and also for inspiring us each and every day, no matter what challenges come your way, thank you. Finally, thank you to my family. Some of them have traveled a great distance to be here with us today, and I appreciate your support. And, of course, my parents for always pushing me to work for the things I want and serving as excellent examples of how to lead a fulfilling and happy life.

I stand before all of you today as the representative for the Class of 2023. And we have all been through a lot together. For example, COVID. I think we all remember the virtual learning, masks, and awkward Homecoming dances. That was the only time I had seen people stand six feet away

from their date since middle school. But, we have also survived some less global obstacles, but challenging nonetheless. Things like trying to balance school, work, extracurriculars, and family, or just trying to keep our heads above water dealing with homework and heavily-weighted finals. But, no matter how much has been thrown our way, we have been able to accomplish a lot in academics, sports, music, art, and extracurriculars. People from our senior class have competed on every stage, between local teams and all the way up to the state and national levels.

And throughout all this stress, fatigue, and accomplishment, we have all gone through it together. Which makes this day all the more difficult to deal with. Because, for the first time, we will be going off on a great adventure to conquer new objectives and face new obstacles without our classmates of 13 years to support us. It’s like the finale of any great sitcom. We all work to-

gether, have been around for one another, and no amount of drama, breakups, or bad acne can tear us apart. But, there is always one thing that will stand in our way, one thing that forces us apart, and one thing that we have all suffered before and will continue to dread in the future: the bittersweet moment that comes after achieving something great and before the next chapter in our lives. The point where we have reached the end of a long, unique journey and have fostered great relationships along the way. And, the point where we are forced to move, grow, and find new mountains to climb.

Most of the people around us will focus on the “bitter” part of these events. Our parents, primarily. They think, “My baby is leaving me forever,” or, “They are going to be all alone.” And, for a while, we will be. It won’t be pretty at first, leaving home and learning our way around a new school, job, or other situation. But, I encourage all of you to focus

on the “sweet” part of these moments. Think about all of the new friends we are going to make, not the people we must leave behind. And dream about what all we will accomplish, not about the struggle that lies ahead. Because these moments happen to everyone, and they are absolutely vital for us to figure things out on our own. Plus, life is too short to just focus on the sad parts of every moment. We all live on the clock, and it’s hard to believe 13 years of education have already come and gone. I have always thought that by the time I’m twenty, I’ll do this, or by the time I’m thirty, I will have done this. But, the truth is, I’m closer to being thirty now than to being born. BOOM, right? I feel old, and I’m still considered a kid. Life is going by, and I think we fail to realize that constant fact until we have a bittersweet moment that makes us think about how things have changed and what is going to be different forever.

So, as we celebrate

graduation today, reflect on all the good things we have done as a class. Take a few seconds to think about all the fun we had at Prom, state competitions, and senior sunset. You know, when I eventually finished my calculus final, that’s when “the last day” really sunk in. I was walking to the last 15 minutes of fourth block, and I started thinking about how everything was over and how I wouldn’t be going to chemistry or ag in the morning. But, later that day, senior sunset reminded me of what high school was all about: having fun with our friends before we go off into the “real world.”

There are always ups and downs during periods such as this, but I ask you, fellow graduates, to focus on the good times we had, and take time to dream about what is to come. Thank you for a fantastic 13 years, and I encourage you all to lead a life full of bittersweet moments.

East Buchanan Class of 2023 Scholarships and Awards

Dylan Ellis - Valedictorian; Summa Cum Laude; Missouri S&T Groundbreaker Scholarship; Missouri S&T Bright Flight; Missouri S&T Honors Scholarship; East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship; PTO Scholarship; Chad Klein Memorial Scholarship; Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

Kinzie Woodside - Salutatorian; Summa Cum Laude; Schuster-Henry Key Award; I Dare You Award; Cameron Regional Medical Center Healthcare Scholarship;

Kansas State University – Missouri Tuition Match Program; Virgil Freeman Memorial Scholarship.

Brooklyn Adams – Summa Cum Laude; I Dare You Award; East Buchanan CTA Scholarship; PEO Chapter JH Scholarship; Northwest Missouri State University Distinguished Scholars Scholarship; Shelter Insurance Scholarship; Gower Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship

Laynie Davidson – Summa

Cum Laude;

Maxwell Henry – Summa

Cum Laude; Class of 1967 Scholarship; Richard Zebelean Memorial Scholarship; Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

Gracie Kelsey – Summa

Cum Laude; Gower Goodtimers Scholarship; Lindenwood University Full Athletic Scholarship for basketball;

Carly Livingston – Summa

Cum Laude; East Buchan-

an Booster Club Scholarship; East Buchanan CTA Scholarship; East Buchanan Alumni Scholarship; Gower Lions Club Scholarship; Gower Masonic Lodge; Class of 1967 Scholarship; Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

Quincy Meyer – Summa Cum Laude; Brett Baltezor Memorial Scholarship; the Gower Goodtimers Scholarship; the Missouri Boys’ State - Charles W. Mickey Scholarship; the Gower Christian Church Scholar-

ship; the Joan Hubble Piano Scholarship; UCM Orchestra Service Scholarship and Piano Merit Scholarship; Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

Allyson Parks – Summ

Cum Laude; the East Buchanan Class of 1973 Scholarship; the Gower Lions Club Scholarship; and the Peoples Transportation Scholarship; the Missouri Western Griffon Guarantee Scholarship.

Samuel W. Perry – Sum-

ma Cum Laude; Northwest Missouri State University Presidential Scholarship; East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship; Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

Maya Watkins – Summa Cum Laude; Saint Newman Scholarship; Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

Zakary Andrews – Magna Cum Laude.

Ashley Baxter – Magna Cum Laude; the Peoples ||Continued on A16

Brooklyn Adams

Parents: Jim and Amy Adams

Favorite Class: Math

Fav. Activity: Volleyball

What’s Next: Northwest Missouri State University to study accounting

Adrian Allen

Parents: Andrea and Skip Allen

Favorite Class: Art

Favorite Activity: Club soccer

What’s Next: Wichita State for collaborative design

Zakary Andrews

Parents: Kelly and Aimee Andrews

Favorite Class: History

Favorite Activity: Golf

What’s Next: College for construction management, then career in construction

Jack Archdekin

Parents: Jarrett Archdekin and Sybil Stark

Favorite Class: Lunch time

Favorite Activity: Golfing

What’s Next: Buy a boat, sit in the sun and grow microgreens.

Ethan Bailey

Parents: Rachael Bailey and Stephen Bailey

Favorite Class: Science

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: Go to college

Sarah Ann Barton

Parents: Tabatha and Jeffrey Barton

Favorite Class: Entrepreneurship

Favorite Activity: FCCLA

What’s Next: Undecided

Isabella Baugh

Parent: Rachael Burris

Favorite Class: Science/ Biology

Favorite Activity: Softball

What’s Next: Northwest Missouri State University, then UMKC Dental School

Ashley Baxter

Parents: Deborah and Chris Baxter

Favorite Class: Biology

Favorite Activity: Softball

What’s Next: Attend NCMC and major in nursing

Jeffery Bradford

Parents: Angela and Jeff Bradford.

Fav. Class: Hillyard, Math

Fav. Activity: Boy Scouts

What’s Next: Workforce

Jack Church

Parents: Joshua and Paula Church

Favorite Class: Agriculture

Favorite Activity: Baseball

What’s Next: Missouri Western State University

Austin Cilke

Parents: Ron and Carrie Cilke

Favorite Class: History

Favorite Activity: Baseball

What’s Next: College

Kayla Curnutt

Laynie Davidson

Parents: Emily Davidson and Billy Davidson

Favorite Class: Biology

Favorite Activity: Painting

What’s Next: Air Guard, air traffic control, pursue degree in aviation

Dylan Davis

Parents: Michelle David and Cliff Davis

Favorite Class: HillyardsHVAC

Favorite Activity: Baseball

What’s Next: Go to work and have fun

Trentin Doss

Parents: Dustin and Heather Doss

Fav. Class: Ag. structures

Favorite Activity: FFA

What’s Next: Missouri Western for degree in mechanical engineering

Piperr Eldredge

Parents: Steffanie and Troy Eldredge

Favorite Class: Art Fav. Activity: Showing swine

What’s Next: Workforce

Dylan Ellis

Parents: Russell and Felisha Ellis

Favorite Class: Science

Favorite Activity: FFA

What’s Next: Missouri S&T for physics or space engineering. Create company, innovate.

AdamStephen Engnes

Parents: Adam Engnes and Kara Kretzinger

Favorite Class: Weights

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: Automotive mechanic/technician

Destiny Fajardo

Parents: Marla Quimby and Anthony Fajardo

Fav. Class: Language Arts

Favorite Activity: FACS

What’s Next: Dental Assistant

East Buchanan Graduation

Cole Gilliland

Parents: Shawna and Aaron Gilliland

Favorite Class: Biology II

What’s Next: Aspire to become a CAT technician

16

Isabella Grado

Parents: Vanessa Shipman and Bernie Grado

Favorite Class: Biology

Favorite Activity: FCCLA, volleyball and cheer.

What’s Next: NCMC to become a sonographer

Spencer Gresham

Guardians: Loraine and Harold Gresham

Favorite Class: Science

Favorite Activity:

Academic Team

What’s Next: Career in industrial robotics

Maxwell Henry

Parents: Jeremy and Susan Henry

Fav. Class: Weightlifting

Favorite Activity: Baseball

What’s Next: NWMSU for applied health science, Masters in athletic training

Alec Hesson

Parents: John and Beth Hesson

Favorite Class: Weights

Favorite Activity: Fishing

What’s Next: Football at Monmouth College, degree in exercise science

Gracie Kelsey

Parents: Kris and Amy Kelsey

Favorite Class: History

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Study biology to become a dermatologist

Jaylen Knowles

Parent: Rachel Knowles

Favorite Class: FACS

Favorite Activity: FCCLA, golf

What’s Next: Kansas State University, pre-nursing

Carly Livingston

Guardians: Deborah and Harold Barnhill

Favorite Class: Biology

Fav. Activity: Cheerleading

What’s Next: North Central Missouri College, major in nursing

Christen Maiseroulle

Parent: Latisha Maiseroulle

Favorite Class: History

Fav. Activity: Art

What’s Next: Workforce

Terrance Martin

Parents: Jodie Lee Wells

Fav. Class: Weight training

Favorite Activity: USMC

Delayed Entry Program

What’s Next: USMC, joining infantry

Raquel Marza-Gil

Host Parents: Jade and Adam Lewis; Parents: Txomin Marza & Mar Gil.

Fav. Class: Nutrition

Fav. Activity: Basketball

Delayed Entry Program

What’s Next: Attend police academy in Spain

Ella Mathews

Parents: The late Andy Mathews and Deanna Mathews

Favorite Class: Biology

Fav. Activity: Fishing, walking, being around family, being outside

What’s Next: MWSU

Drake McCormack

Parents: Taunya Ottinger and Craig McCormack

Favorite Class: Math

Fav Activity: Work and relax

What’s Next: Mowing business

Quincy Meyer

Parents: Carl and Kristin Meyer

Fav. Class: Music and chemistry

Fav. Activity: Academic team

What’s Next: Pursue music technology and composition collegiately.

East Buchanan Graduation

Wyeth Perry

Parents: Jason Perry and Susan Giddens

Favorite Class: Ag Class

Favorite Activity: FFA

What’s Next: Northwest Missouri State University

Jena Musser

Parents: Danny and Christa Musser

Favorite Class: Math

Fav. Activity: Cheerleading

What’s Next: Cosmetology school

Noah Ottinger

Parents: Darren Ottinger and Angela Pike

Favorite Class: Ag

Fav. Activity: Agriculture

What’s Next: Workforce

Rylee Parker

Parents: Tiffany and James Parker

Favorite Class: History

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: Iowa Central

Derek Peak

Allysson Parks

Parents: Brian Parks and Jennifer Parks

Favorite Class: Math

Favorite Activity: Golf

What’s Next: Missouri

Western, major in biology

Parents: Amber and Phillip Peak

Favorite Class: History

Favorite Activity: Baseball

What’s Next: Missouri Western State University

Brazon Pryor

Parents: Chase and Stephanie Pryor, Hannah Walker

Favorite Class: Weights

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: HVAC at Summit Heating & Cooling

Tyler Rechterman

Bristol Robertson

Parents: Dawn and Eddie Gehl

Favorite Class: Agriculture

Favorite Activity: Wrestling

What’s Next: NWMSU, major in animal science, minor in business.

Taran Sherwood

Parents: Travis and Renee Sherwood

Favorite Class: Biology, Hillyards

Favorite Activity: Softball

What’s Next: NWMSU, major in pre-med

Laken Stallard

Parents: Bill and Lydia Stallard

Favorite Class: Biology

Favorite Activity:Basketball

What’s Next: Northwest Missouri State University for elementary education

Kinzie Woodside

Johnna Thomas

Parent: Michelle Thomas

Favorite Class: Science

Favorite Activity: Clinicals

What’s Next: Go to college to be a nurse

Lexi Turner

Parents: Aaron and Laura Turner, Natacia and John Benight

Favorite Class: PE

Favorite Activity: Cheer

What’s Next: Missouri Southern State University

Maya Watkins

Parents: Jayson and Mary Watkins

Favorite Class: Chemistry

Favorite Activity: Volleyball

What’s Next: Newman University, major pre-med and minor in Spanish

Carson White

Parents: Sim and Julie White

Favorite Class: Math

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: Workforce

Bronco Whitt

Parents: Priscilla and Jared Whitt

Favorite Class: History

Favorite Activity: Baseball

What’s Next: Maple Woods, play baseball, major in criminal justice

Parents: Kelly and Stacey Woodside

Favorite Class: Math and science

Favorite Activity: Volleyball

What’s Next: Kansas State, major in biology, attend medical school

Gracie Lynn Arnold

Parents: Katie and Bill Arnold

Favorite Class: English

Favorite Activity: Softball

What’s Next: Mizzou to study animal sciences

Jenna Baumli

Parents: Stacy Foster, JJ Baumli, Jena Baumli

Favorite Class: ELA with Mrs. Lock

Favorite Activity: Art

What’s Next: Maple Woods for industrial maintenance and work at Altec

Caidyn Bentz

Parents: William Bentz and Bria Samples

Fav. Class: Language Arts

Favorite Activity: Softball!!

What’s Next: Playing softball at Park University, majoring in elementary ed.

Jazelle Bingham

Parents: Andrea and D’san

Bingham

Favorite Class: ELA

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Attend Peru State in the medical field

Alex Black

Parent: Meshanne Black

Favorite Class: History

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Working

James Braddy

Parent: Felicia Braddy

Favorite Class: Math

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Scholarship to play basketball at Southwestern Iowa C.C.

Casey DeWald

Parents: Shane and Jennifer DeWald

Favorite Class: Art

Favorite Activity: Soccer

What’s Next: Missouri Western for early childhood education.

Cooper Dunivan

Parents: Erin Dunivan and Jerry Dunivan, Jr.

Favorite Class: History

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Rockhurst University to study business

Rayden Freeman

Wesley Fitzpatrick

Parents: Carolyn and Bob Fitzpatrick

Favorite Class: History

Fav. Activity: Football

What’s Next: Work to be a police officer

Parent: Ray Freeman

Favorite Class: PE

Favorite Activity: Working on Cars

What’s Next: Workforce to save money to start my business

Jillian Hamilton

Parents: Jewel Ascencio and Billy Keele

Favorite Class: English

Favorite Activity: Band

What’s Next: Attending

Grand Canyon University

Jordan Harris

Parents: David and Stephanie Harris

Fav. Class: Language Arts

Favorite Activity: Track

What’s Next: Real estate and attending the University of Kansas for architecture

Kaitlyn

Holiman

Parents: Amy Coldren and Mike Kendall, Randy Holiman

Favorite Class: ELA with Mrs. Lock

Fav. Activity: Theater with Mrs. Codding

What’s Next: Esthetician

Charles Hull

Parents: John and Kim Hull

Favorite Class: Reading

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Working at my coffee shop and working with my friends

Jeffery Kobel

Jackson Lewis

Parents: Jessica Sims and K.C. Lewis

Favorite Class: ELA

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Working for the City of Plattsburg/trim carpentry

Gracelyn Marsh

Parents: Fred and Shirley Marsh

Favorite Class: History

Fav. Activity: Volleyball

What’s Next: Attend college to pursue my passion for nursing

Abigail Martin

Parents: Eve & Jody Martin

Favorite Class: English

Favorite Activity: Church activities and volunteering

What’s Next: Spurgeon College to become a missionary

Lucas Schroeder

Parents: Christy Fisher and Andrew Schroeder

Favorite Class: Band

Fav. Activity: Basketball

What’s Next: Going to Mizzou

Plattsburg Graduation

Joslyn Russell

Parents: Angela Trevino and Steven Russell

Favorite Class: English

Fav. Activity: Co-founding

Tiger Trails magazine

Next: Going to college

What’s Next: NWMSU for secondary English educ.

Hannah Thiessen

Parents: John and Alex Thiessen

Favorite Class: Science

Fav. Activity: Cheerleading

What’s Next: William Jewell to study biology and cheer

Carson Stockdale

Carson Tucci

Parents: Todd and Leigh

Anne Tucci

Favorite Class: Vo-Tech

Favorite Activity: Ag

What’s Next: Work

Brodie Wehmeyer

Parents: Travis Wehmeyer and Amanda Wehmeyer

Favorite Class: ELA

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: College

Samantha Williams

Parent: Larry Williams

Favorite Class: ELA

Favorite Activity: FCCLA

What’s Next: Take a year off to work, then college for sonography

Xoe Spears

205 E. Clay Ave. Plattsburg, MO 64477 816-539-2128

East Buchanan graduating

of 2023 with the traditional cap toss to mark their commencement.

Plattsburg Salutatorian Gracelyn Marsh

Plattsburg graduate Charlie Hull receives his diploma

Lathrop graduates Ginevra Girardo and Jared Wright

Plattsburg graduate Caidyn Bentz

(Above, left to right) Plattsburg graduates James Braddy, Alex Black and Jazelle Bingham.

(Left) East Buchanan graduates Jena Musser and Kinzie Woodside.

(Below Left) Plattsburg Valedictorian Wyatt Moran.

(Right) Lathrop graduate Tyson Partain with his newly-earned diploma.

(Above) The graduates at Lathrop toss their caps after graduating.

(Below Left) East Buchanan Valedictorian Dylan Ellis speaks to the graduation crowd at EBHS.

(Below) Lathrop Superintendent Chris Fine takes a photo with Corby Rardon on the graduation stage.

Good afternoon, fellow graduates, distinguished guests, faculty, and staff.

Today is a day to celebrate the culmination of our hard work, dedication, and perseverance during our four years here at Plattsburg High School. We have spent countless hours studying, writing papers, and preparing for exams. Now, we stand before you as graduates, ready to embark on the next chapter of our lives.

As I reflect on our time together, I am filled with pride and gratitude. Pride for what we accomplished and gratitude for the people who have helped us along the way. We owe a debt of gratitude to our families, who have supported us through thick and thin, and

to our staff here at PHS, who have challenged us to think critically and to be the best versions of ourselves. We also owe our success to the extracurricular activities we all have participated in.

Through these activities we learned the importance of teamwork, hard work, and perseverance. It is through this perseverance that some of us are continuing with our activities to the college level.

But most importantly, we owe it to ourselves to continue to strive for excellence and to make an impact in the world. We are not only the future, but we are also the present. Our actions and decisions will shape the course of history, and it is up to us to make a difference.

As we move on to the next phase of our lives, I

urge you all to stay true to yourselves, to never give up on your dreams, and to always remember the values that have guided us through our academic journey. We have learned not only how to think but also how to be compassionate, empathetic, and kind. These are the values that will help us navigate the challenges that lie ahead and to make the world a better place.

In closing, I would like to thank each and every one of you for making this journey so special. Let us celebrate our achievements, but let us also remember that this is only the beginning. We have a responsibility to use our education to make a positive impact in the world. Congratulations, Class of 2023, and best of luck in all of your future endeavors.

First off, I’d like to wish a happy Mother’s Day to all the moms who are here to see us graduate. Thank you for sharing today with us, for this celebration, and thank you for everything you do.

Now, I’d like to thank God, my family, the teachers and staff here at PHS, and my peers for the support that’s been given to me these past few years.

This is a very exciting time for all of us – a new chapter in our lives filled with possibilities and new opportunities. As we move into this new stage, I wish two things for you:

First, that you live life to the fullest. It’s easy to be-

come stressed in this world and get so caught up in the negative, but there is so much more to life than the stress of getting straight A’s or making everyone like you. Find something that will make you happy. Dance in the rain, eat another cupcake, try out that new thing that you’ve always wanted to do but are too scared to. Don’t let your fears or worries hold you back in life, because you might end up wondering what could’ve been.

Secondly, I wish for you to always look for opportunities to serve others. We all have put in so much work to get where we are today and you should be proud of yourselves, but don’t forget those who have

helped us get to this point: our parents, teachers, classmates, and all the unspoken people that have made a difference in our lives. As a thank you for all the blessings you received, try to always pay it forward to those around you who are in need. In doing so, you’ll discover the biggest reward of paying it forward is deep satisfaction in making this world a better place.

I just want to say don’t be afraid of the unknown. Get out there and try something new! And don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Because who knows, they might make a great story some day.

Thank you for your time and God bless.

Plattsburg Scholarships on Page B15

PLATTSBURG VALEDICTORIAN

“We owe it to ourselves to continue to strive for excellence”

by wyatt moran plattsburg valedictorian

PLATTSBURG SALUTATORIAN

“Look for opportunities to serve others”

by gracelyn marsh plattsburg salutatorian

Matthew Miller

Guardians: Nic Miller

Favorite Class: Graphic Design

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: I plan to further my education!

Ariana Muller

Guardians: Janelle Vogele

Favorite Class: English

Favorite Activity: Dance

What’s Next: University of Alabama in the fall

Ethan Noll

Parents: Andy and Candy Noll

Favorite Class: Science

Favorite Activity: Working on Cars

What’s Next: Maple Woods, plans to be deisel mechanic

Tyson Partain

Parents: Wendy Partain and David Partain

Favorite Class: Math

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: MU to study information technology

Lilia Purler

Parents: Tracey and Tony Purler

Fav. Class: Graphic design

Fav. Activity: Gymnastics

What’s Next: Continuing academic and gymnastics career at Arizona State

Corby Rardon

Parents: Chauncey and Crystal Rardon

Favorite Class: Multimedia

Favorite Activity: E-Sports

What’s Next: NWMSU to major in social media management

Raelyn Rose

Parents: Tim and Lyndea Rose

Favorite Class: ELA

Favorite Activity: Volleyball

What’s Next: Going to Missouri State University

Reina J. Sapp

Parents: Lieuticia

Summers, Jesse Summers, Scott Sapp

Favorite Class: ELA

Favorite Activity: Wrestling

What’s Next: Dental assistant, dental hygienist

Aurora Sherman

Kaden Spear

Skylar Tarwaters

Tucker Scanlan

Parents: Sean Scanlan and Sara Feeney

Fav. Class: Graphic Design

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: Furthering my education

Kanden Uthe

Parents: Kelley and Jerald Uthe

Fav. Class: Math and PE

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: Being a house landlord and working

Jared Wright

Parents: Dawn Sherman, Bill Sherman, Melissa Sherman

Favorite Class: Greenhouse and landscaping

Fav. Activity: Trapshooting

What’s Next: Working at schools

Lee Wickstrom, Jr.

Parents: Lee Wickstrom, Sr., and Casie Yeubanks

Favorite Class: Shop

Favorite Activity: Band

What’s Next: Going straight to work

Parents: Jeff and Sherry Wright

Favorite Class: 7th Hour

Multimedia-Mrs. Pritchett

Favorite Activity: Football

What’s Next: Midland University on a football scholarship, get a degree in journalism/broadcasting

Parents: Joe Spear and Xirna Spear

Fav. Class: Graphic design

Favorite Activity: Track

What’s Next: College or an internship

Parents: Jamey and Krista

Tarwaters

Favorite Class: Shop

Favorite Activity: Band

What’s Next: Automotive technician/mechanic

Also graduating for Lathrop: Scott Abbott, Kylie Kramer and Thomas Kinser

Berlynn York

Parents: Nathan York and Lindsey Sterling.

Favorite Class: Math

Favorite Activity: Band

What’s Next: MCC to become a vet technician.

Marissa Zeikle

Parents: Jenny Rounds and Trevor Rounds

Favorite Class: Art

Favorite Activity: E-Sports

What’s Next: Maple Woods to study graphic design

Sara B. Allyn Brayden Anderson

Alyssa Berryman Alivia Bisby

Jackson Blodgett

Trey Bradley

Sierra Brassfield Darian Butler Kaylee Cates

Benjamin Christ

Trent Cochran

Haley Dohrn

Braxton Elliott Cheyenne Elliott

Kayla Galloway

Jacob Gaskins

Lillian Peden

Kaleb Randall

Elise Seba

LATHROP VALEDICTORIAN

First, I would like to congratulate this class for surviving high school. We faced a lot of challenges throughout the beginning of our high school career. Our freshman year, COVID started, which canceled all of the fourth quarter and spring sports, which stunted our athletic and academic

growth. Then our sophomore year, we had to wear masks to school and only saw half of our friends due to the hybrid schedule. We also had to learn how to learn online while we were quarantined. We had to adapt at a time when we barely knew the expectations of high school. I’m proud of us for that because we were obviously successful. I mean, we

are graduating. But now we have to ask ourselves, “What comes next?” Our world is starting to change and now we have to adapt again.

I believe that the struggles we have gone through during our first years of high school have only made us stronger individuals. I have personally seen the dedication this class has had to graduating. I know more

than a handful of you were taking as many classes as you could with Mudd so you could graduate because you failed some classes during COVID. I also know some of us had at least one job while in high school and that is pretty difficult when you also are trying to be an athlete. So again, I’m proud of us for what we have accom-

Lathrop Class of 2023 Awards and Scholarships

Avery Clay – MSHSAA

Female Award, Marine Distinguished Female Athlete, Booster Club - $1,000; Lathrop Youth Wrestling - $500; Park University - $4,000

Matt Miller – MSHSAA

Male Award, Marine Distinguished Male Athlete, Sierra Brassfield – Dee Dee Miller Award, MSBA

Belcher Award; Tyson Partain – Polly Grant Award, Goppert Financial Bank - $1,000; Hamilton Bank - $500; Toby Daley – Scholastic Excellence; LHS Alumni - $250; UMKC Curator’s Merit Scholarship - $5,000; Jackson Blodgett – Semper

Fidelis Award for Musical Excellence, Kaylie Kirkwood –

MoASSP Consnumate Professional - $500; Eagle Animal Hospital - $500; I-35 Cattlemen’s Association$500; Lathrop Garden Club – $350; Spaeth Van Buren – $1,000; Woodrow Long$2,000; FFA Alumni Scholarship – $300; NWMSU Tower Scholarship - $2,000; Friedren Boone Scholarship - $1,500;

Jared Gaskins – Barbara Barr Memorial - $500;

Booster Club - $1,000; Lathrop PTO - $500; Rotary’s

Cheryl Snodgrass Memorial Scholarship - $1,000; MSTA - $500; NHS - $500;

Aiden McVicker Honorary Scholarship - $250; Southwest Baptist University – $14,500; Access Plus$2,000;

Kayla Galloway – Blood Drive Scholarship - $500; Jacob Gaskins – Cameron Regional Medical Center$1,000;

Ethan Noll – Drug Free Superstar - $1,000; Lathrop

Antique Car, Tractor And Engine Association - $500;

Lathrop PTO - $500; University of Central Missouri - $2,500;

Brendan Fine – First Christian Church – $250;

Ray Sellers, Sr., Memorial - $250; MSTA - $500; Terry D. Barnes Memorial –$1,500; Northwest Missouri Association of School Administrators - $1,000;

Jared Wright – First Christian Church – $250; Midland University Athletics$30,000;

Chloe Chapman – Dr. Turley Scholarship - $500;

Lathrop PEO - $500;

Corby Rardon – John S.

Barrett Memorial - $1,000; Lathrop Antique Car, Tractor And Engine Association - $500; Northwest Missouri State University - $7,511

Raelyn Rose – Deann Pritchett Memorial Scholarship - $250;

BreAnn Paul – Lathrop Youth Wrestling - $500; FFA Alumni Scholarship - $300; Paul Keel – Leroy Sater Memorial – $2,000;

Elise Seba – LHS Alumni$250;

Kayla Galloway – Plattsburg Artist Coalition$1,000;

Olivia Gowin – Spaeth Van Buren – $1,000; Brayden Anderson – Platte Clay Electric Coop – $1,000; Chastyn Malone – University of Central Missouri$3,000;

Cole Chapman – University of Colorado-Boulder Truscott Scholarship - $1,000; Emalee Cox – FFA Alumni Scholarship - $300; Lainey Christopher –NWMSU Merit Scholarship - $1,000;

Lilian Peden – GCU Scholarships - $3,300;

Trinity Hutchinson – FFA Alumni Scholarship - $300; Lilia Purler – New Amer-

ican University Provost’s Award - $48,000 (over four years); Marissa Zeikle – Gregg Williams Foundation - $250; Levi Davis – WorkKeys Gold Certification; Jeremiah Mansfield –American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship - $250; Levi Smith – Honor Guard Scholarship - $250; A+ Scholarship Qualifiers: Brayden Anderson, Breanna Anderson, Sierra Brassfield, Carson Carver, Chloe Chapman, Lainey Christopher, Avery Clay, Toby Daley, Haley Dohrn, Brendan Fine, Jared Gaskins, Paul Keel, Lyndsi Larson-French, Chastyn Malone, Ethan Noll, Garrett Packard, Tyson Partain, Lilia Purler, Corby Rardon, Raelyn Rose, Tucker Scanlan, Sky Young, Marissa Zeikle.

by brendon fine lathrop valedictorian

I have dreaded this moment since I heard that I was in the running. Not because I didn’t want it, but because I know that I suck at talking in front of people. I even considered trying to get worse grades so I wouldn’t have to come up here and talk.

But now, I am still scared, but I see it as a blessing. I’m glad that I get to represent my class in the highest of honors. We haven’t

been the best class. We’ve made some teachers quit. We’ve made some teachers cry (sorry, Mrs. Spurgeon). But seeing the other classes, I know we definitely aren’t the worst.

I know I’m not going to see a lot of my classmates much after this, so I would like to thank you guys for making these past 13 years amazing. I really believe that we left our school a better place, and as always, Class of ‘23 on top.

Aiden Walker

Ethan Wilson Sky Young

Makayla Turner

Levi Smith

Kaylie Kirkwood Lyndsi LarsonFrench

Jeremiah Mansfield Hallie McLaughlin

Garrett Packard BreAnna Paul

“We left our school a better place”

LATHROP SALUTATORIAN

“All you need to be successful is to keep moving forward.”

by sierra brassfield lathrop salutatorian

CONGRATULATIONS!

WE ARE P ROUD OF YOU !

F ROM THE LATHROP R-II STAFF AND BOARD OF EDUCATION

plished. Now we are here taking the next steps in our life. We are now closing this chapter, and I know that we all are a little apprehensive about the future but moving forward is the only way progress can happen.

We now need to open up the next chapter of our lives, whether that be college, the workforce, or trade school. Time keeps marching on and there’s no stopping it. In the words of Pablo Picasso, “Action is

the foundational key to all success.” All you need to be successful is to keep moving forward. Don’t be satisfied with where you are at. No matter what you do, you will be starting the next chapter of your life within these next

PHS Awards & Scholarships

Gracie Arnold

A+ Scholarship $4740; Central Bank of the Midwest $1500; Vern Bagley - $500.00; Historical Society- $1000; United Cooperatives-$500; Miss Plattsburg-$500; Buchanan County MU Legacy-$2000; MU Curators-$5000; CAFNER Excellence

Award-$2000

Jenni Baumli

JW Lile Scholarship-$500

Caidyn Bentz

A+ Scholarship-$4740; Booster Club-$500; Peoples Transportaion-$500; Grow Your Own-$1000; Park University Athletic Scholarship-$9000; Park Academic Scholarship-$3000

Jazelle Bingham

Peoples Transportation-$500

James Braddy OPS Scholarship-$500; A+-$4740; SWCC Athletic Scholarship

Cooper Dunivan Knapp Scholarship-$20,000; Hawk Fund-$5,395; Access Extra-$2,000; OPS$500; Plattsburg Masonic Lodge-$500

Wesley Fitzpatrick

A+ Scholarship-$4740

Jillian Hamilton Peoples Transportation-$500

Jordan Harris Kansas University Academic Scholarship-$26,000; KU General Scholarship-$11000

Gracelyn Marsh

A+ Scholarship -$4740; Booster Club-$500; Dr.

Larry Ozenberger-$500; Vanderau-$400; Cameron Regional Medical Center-$1000; Plattsburg Rotary-$500; MOWest-Griffon Guarantee-$3000; Griffon ACT Scholarship-$700; Miss Plattsburg-$150; MOWest Vocal Scholarship-$700; GI Bill. ;Abigail Martin

A+-$4740; OPS-$500; Plattsburg Masonic Lodge-$500; Plattsburg Rotary-$500; Monica Lynn Compton-$500; Griffon Guarantee-$2500; Griffon ACT Scholarship-$500; Miss Plattsburg; Envision Scholarhip-Spurgeon College

Wyatt Moran

A+ Scholarship $4740; Booster Club-$500; NWMSU-Distinguished Scholar-$4000; K-State General Scholarship-$16071

Ashley Morsbach

A+ $4740; Shirley Fry & Georgia O’Connor-$500; Vern Bagley-$500; FHSU Achievement Award-$500; FHSU Band Scholarship-$500

Deborah Neel-Pratt Griffon Guarantee-$2000

Alivia O’Dell Plattsburg Masonic Lodge-$500; OPS Scholarship-$500; Griffon Guarantee-$750

Elizabeth Russell Plattsburg Historical Soceity-$1000; Plattsburg Artist Coalition-$1000

Joslyn Russell

A+ Scholarship-$4740; Peo-

ples Transportation-$500; Grow Your Own-$1000; NWMSU-Tower Scholar-$2000; Saunders Scholarship-$1500

Lucas Schroeder

A+ Scholarship-$4740; Access Extra-$2000; Spalding-$2500; MU Alumni -$1000; Provost Award-$1000

Xoe Spears

A+ Scholarship-$4740; Central Bank of the Midwest-$1500; JW Lile Scholarship-$500; Kelly Flores-$500; Griffon Guarantee-$2000; Griffon ACT Scholarship-$400

Carson Stockdale

Gene Teaney-$5000; Plattsburg Rotary-$500; Brett and Robin Dickerson-$3350; A+-$4740; NWMSU Academic Excellence-$3000

Hannah Thiessen William Jewell College Cheer-$2500; William Jewell Legacy-$1000; William Jewell College Presidential-$4000; Missouri Cheerleading Coaches Association-$1000; Miss Plattsburg-$500; Cameron Regional Medical Center-$1000; Brett and Robin Dickerson-$3350; Spalding-$2500; A+ Scholarship-$4740; Booster Club$500

George Washington Carver Awards

Wyatt Moran, Carson Stockdale, Gracelyn Marsh, Gracie Arnold

few months. To quote an unknown source, “Today we close the door to our past, open the door to our future, take a deep breath and step through to a new life.” We have come so far it is only fitting that we step through

and open the next chapter of our lives.

I wish everyone here the best of luck in their future endeavors. This is where we split and go our separate ways but I hope one day you can look back on your high

school years and be proud of what you’ve accomplished, whether it be graduating with honors or gaining the skills to succeed in your job. I hope your next chapter will be even better than this one.

Graduation in Clinton County

East Buchanan Award and Scholarships,

Transportation Scholarship; and the Cameron Regional Medical Center Healthcare Scholarship.

Jack Church – Magna Cum Laude; OPS Scholarship; East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship;

Austin Cilke – Magna Cum Laude; Missouri Western Griffon Guarantee Scholarship.

Trentin Doss – Magna Cum Laude; East Buchanan Class of 1973 Scholarshi; Frakes Family Memorial Scholarship; East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship; Gower Area Chamber of Commerce Scholarship; Class of 1967 Scholarship; Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

AdamStephen Engnes –Magna Cum Laude.

Brody Martin – Magna Cum Laude

Carson White – Magna Cum Laude

Jeffery Bradford – Cum Laude; Skills USA District Silver in Carpentry and Job Skills Demo; East Buchanan Workforce Scholarship.

Laken Stallard – Cum

Laude; East Buchanan Ruth Scearce Memorial Scholarship; Class of 1967 Scholarship; Donna J Ruoff Scholarship

Johnna Thomas – Cum Laude

Bronco Whitt – Cum Laude

Ethan Bailey – Football scholarship to Iowa Central Community College

Cole Gilliland - State Technical College of Missouri Foundation Foley Equipment Scholarship; the Gower Christian Church Scholarship; East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship; Class of 1967 Scholarship

Isabella Grado – Gower Goodtimers Scholarship; Sisters in Service Scholarship

Alec Hesson – Monmouth College Dean’s Scholarship; Monmouth College Grant

Ella Mathews – Dennis E. Gallup Memorial 4H Scholarship; PTO Scholarship;

Derek Peak – Cashatt Family Scholarship

Taran Sherwood – Peoples Transportation Scholarship

Dylan Davis - East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship

Bristol Robertson - East Buchanan FFA Alumni Scholarship

Adrian Allen – Sarah Beth McCoy Scholarship

East Buchanan Academic Diploma (for outstanding academic performance): Jaylen Knowles, Carly Livingston ,Christian Maiseroulle, Brody Martin, Derek Peak, Samuel Wyeth Perry, Brazon Pryor, Taran Sherwood, Laken Stallard, Johnna Thomas, Alexis Turner. Maya Watkins, Carson White, Bronco Whitt, Kinzie Woodside,

Continued from page B2

Ella Mathews, Jena Musser, Noah Ottinger, Allyson Parks, Brooklynn Adams, Adrian Allen, Zakary Andrews, Jack Archdekin, Sarah Barton, Isabella Baugh, Ashley Baxter, Jeffery Bradford, Jack Church, Austin Cilke, Laynie Davidson,

Dylan Davis, Trentin Doss, Dylan Ellis, AdamStephen Engnes, Cole Gilliland, Isabella Grado, Maxwell Henry, Gracie Kelsey.

A+ Scholarship Qualifiers: Brooklynn Adams, Zakary Andrews, Ashley Baxter,

Jack Church, Laynie Davidson, Trentin Doss, Dylan Ellis, Cole Gilliland, Maxwell Henry, Gracie Kelsey, Ella Mathews, Quincy Meyer, Allysson Parks, Samuel Perry, Laken Stallard, Alexis Turner, Bronco Whitt, Kinzie Woodside.

o n g r a t u l a t i o n s ! We A r e Pr o u d o f Yo u !