BonnerSprings.com

May 8 marked the day that 150 Bonner Springs High School seniors had eagerly awaited the past four years.

Along with family, friends and school staff, the graduating seniors of BSHS made their way into the District PE Center to collect the diplomas representing the hard work and achievements that brought them to this point.

"We will always remember the class of 2008," said BSHS Principal Jerry Abbott.

In his address to the graduating class, Abbott said one word came to mind when trying to think about what the class of 2008 represented: achievement.

He said the class of 2008 gave the school a higher standard of excellence that will leave a legacy for the many classes to follow. He noted that the seniors had been granted about $500,000 in scholarships toward their higher education.

"That is something to be proud of," he said.

Claps and cheers filled the crowded gymnasium as Abbott continued by saying their journey had come to end in Bonner, but there was much more ahead for a class he said has left a lifelong imprint on the school and its staff.

"Thank you for the memories," he said. "Thank you for your leadership, your accomplishments, your athleticism and your talents."

In addition to Abbott's, a combined speech was given by the three valedictorians - Michael Cooper, Lisa Rogers and Adam Smith - and the salutatorian, Amanda Ontis.

Rogers spoke of the mixed emotions that many of the seniors were facing as they sat in their hat and gown waiting to receive their diploma. She said excitement, relief and sadness were feelings that come with such a monumental step as graduation.

Cooper noted that the class of 2008 was "anything but traditional." He said that graduation night wasn't for worrying about the future, but for enjoying the time left in Bonner Springs.

"We have the rest of our lives to think about the rest of our lives," he said.

Smith agreed with the sentiment that this special night was to be enjoyed. He said his fellow seniors should be proud of what they've accomplished and that success was sure to follow them all.

"By walking across this stage tonight," he said, "we're setting up a foundation for the rest of our lives."