ROCHELLE — On Saturday, Rochelle Township High School held its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2024 outdoors on the football field. There were 209 graduating seniors. 

The event included a performance by the RTHS choir and speeches by Principal Chris Lewis and students Alivia Henkel and Aiden Ramsey.

When the Class of 2024 entered RTHS, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic and those students spent their freshman year with online learning and limited time in the classroom.

“But we got through it,” Henkel said. “I remember all of the Google Classroom posts, videos and Zoom meetings. And then we became sophomores and finally got to see each other's faces in the hallway every day. We met new teachers, grew old friendships, and even started new ones. We kept ourselves busy in sports, classes, clubs and other activities. And then we were juniors. We walked through the halls as upperclassmen. School became a little harder and we had to take the SAT test. And now we're seniors and we get to be the ones at the front of the superfan section cheering on the athletes as they celebrate the end of their season. We got to experience senior prom and what it's like to finally park a little closer to the school. We've made so many connections with these places and people and they've each tried their best to prepare us for a better tomorrow.”

Henkel challenged the senior class to persevere past difficulties in the future and to make the most of each day ahead. 

“I think it's most important that we focus on the present as we move on with our lives,” Henkel said. “Life will allow you to develop so much fear. But I believe you can't let that fear steal away the joy you experience today. Sometimes today is all we have. I know it's easy to get wrapped up in life and forget that. Never forget to appreciate life every day. Because we're never promised a tomorrow. I'd encourage you all to make the most of everything life throws at you. If you do that, I know you'll go far. Congratulations to the class of 2024. I can't wait to see all the places we'll go.”

Lewis recognized graduating students who have enlisted in the military, and then recognized 11 summa cum laude students who attained a 4.0 grade point average or higher: Kyra Bivins, Elin Zheng, Connor David, Ramsey, Danica Ward, Henkel, Parker Lenkaitis, Alexavier Villatoro, Cale Workman, Alexander McBride, and Emily Montelongo. RTHS Board of Education Member and RTHS Alumni Association representative Laurie Pillen then presented those 11 students with Carney Rs. 

"The RTHS Alumni Association congratulates these students on their achievements and wishes them the very best," Pillen said. 

Ramsey remarked at the obstacles the Class of 2024 overcame in its four years at RTHS, including the pandemic forcing them to only be in school two days a week with limited interaction. He said that more hardships will come in the future, and asked his peers to push past them and carry the values they’ve learned at RTHS.

“The knowledge we've attained through our four years at RTHS will be the largest contributor to future success,” Ramsey said. “Knowledge is the tool we can shape the world with. I implore you to never stop learning, despite wherever your future may lead you. We can carry the memories and experiences that we made. Think about what we've accomplished over the past four years. That knowledge will be the spring that launches us into all that we've been preparing for.”

During his speech, Lewis asked those in attendance to take in the moment in front of them and to reflect on the experiences the past four years yielded. He thanked the parents and loved ones in the stands for all of the help they provided their students. 

“Parents, your love and support are large reasons that your children are here today,” Lewis said. “You played a vital role and you should be very proud of your child. Students, it wasn't always easy. There were tests that felt impossible, project deadlines that made your stress level increase, and moments of self-doubt. But through it all, you made it. Some of you found new passions and developed your talents and maybe were even surprised at how far you can push yourself.”

RTHS’s mission statement is “Preparing students for their tomorrow.” Lewis said the rest of the Class of 2024’s work will be up to them. 

“Success is not easy,” Lewis said. “You will fail and struggle, but with enough will power and determination, you can get there. Don't be afraid to take risks and to stumble and learn from your mistakes. Pursue your dreams with determination, but also be open to unexpected opportunities that life throws your way. You never know which path you may go down. Our world needs you. Your collaboration and perspectives are valued. Never lose sight of the connections you made here: this community, your classmates, your teachers, your family and most importantly, once a Hub, always a Hub. You are now officially RTHS alumni. Class of 2024, you're prepared for your tomorrow. Go out there and make a difference. Make your family, your classmates, and yourselves proud.”