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NANKIN — Mapleton Local Schools recognized the achievements of its senior class with a graduation ceremony Sunday afternoon.
Throughout the ceremony, several speakers recognized the memory of Breanne McKean, a senior student who passed away at the school’s homecoming in September.
Students Emilee Dennison and Hevyn Norman dedicated the school’s yearbook to McKean. Then, students and teachers were told they had sunglasses under their seats, and encouraged to take a moment to share photos of the ceremony as a tribute to McKean, who they shared was known for taking funny photos and videos on friends’ phones.
The ceremony also concluded with the presentation of an honorary diploma for McKean, with senior class advisor Raichel Herte reading a statement from the McKean family. The statement thanked the community for rallying around them.
Herte also offered the commencement address, sharing several lessons she hoped students would take forward with them into the future. Those lessons included remaining kind, embracing change and being there for each other.
Supt. Scott Smith and high school principal Corey Kline each offered comments as well. Jordan Swartzel gave a salutatory address, and the valedictory address was given by Emma Roar.
Roar encouraged her peers to embrace the present.
Below are photos from Mapleton’s graduation ceremony.
