By CORINNE MESSER
The Progress
Moapa Valley High School held its commencement exercises to celebrate the class of 2023 on Monday night, May 22 in the school gymnasium. A total of 130 students were all smiles as they marched into the gym through the traditional passageway of their high school teachers.
MVHS Principal Hal Mortensen, Assistant Principals Duane McMinn, and Mitchell Ozaki, as well as Grant M. Bowler Elementary Principal, Kelby Robison, were on the podium welcoming the seniors.
Also on the stand were distinguished visitors Clark County School District Trustee Katie Williams; Sonya Holdsworth, Region 1 Associate Superintendent; and CCSD Superintendent Dr. Jesus Jara.
The MVHS Band, directed by William Ragland, entertained the crowd with enjoyable music titled “The Incredibles” and “Darklands March,” before playing the traditional “Pomp & Circumstance,” as the students marched into the gym.
The evening sailed smoothly as Assistant Principal McMinn welcomed the visitors and gave opening remarks, then graduating class member Tyson Staheli led all attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The first speaker was Senior Class President, Landon Wrzesinski. He spoke about how quickly high school had gone for him and about all the fun times he had with his friends. He reminded his class that this isn’t the end but the beginning of new adventures.
MVHS Class of 2023 Valedictorian Cassandra Nelson spoke next. She expressed the importance of a strong work ethic and encouraged fellow graduates to set high standards for themselves. She stressed success is a lifelong duty that involves much discipline and sacrifice.
There were two Salutatorian addresses which followed. Iain McMurray spoke first, thanking his parents, teachers, and staff for helping him through his high school career. He spoke about the importance of motivation and he encouraged the graduates to give 100% in all they do….unless they’re donating blood! He said to never lose sight of the potential inside of us.
Salutatorian Kenzie Hughes, speaking next, articulated the importance of setting goals. She mentioned goals give us direction, and help us move forward. She encouraged the graduates to set their sights high and to dream big.
MVHS Principal Hal Mortensen spoke briefly about the history of Moapa Valley. He mentioned that MVHS had recently celebrated its 100th anniversary.
Mortensen had the graduates stand and applaud their teachers, coaches, and staff for everything they have learned from them through their high school careers, which turned into a standing ovation from the audience as well.
“Find your vocation, something you love to do, and you will enjoy doing it all of your life,” said Mortenson.
He closed by reminding the seniors that, wherever they go, they will always be the mighty, mighty Pirates!
Trustee Williams accepted the graduating class of 2023. Then each student’s name was announced as they walked up on stage to receive their diploma.
Student Taytum Yardley led the students in the traditional turning of the tassel and everyone sang the Alma Mater, “The Blue & Gold.”
The newest graduates of Moapa Valley High School exited the gym as the band played, “Pirates of the Caribbean.”
As the graduates mingled with friends and family outside, a few of the seniors were interviewed about their high school career.
Chandler Evans said his favorite part of high school was baseball season, and his favorite teacher was Mr. Charlie Cooper because “he’s fun, goofy, and one of his baseball coaches.” Chandler said that he plans on serving an LDS church mission in the near future.
Talli Fairchild was glad to be graduating but said, “I will miss the sports, my friends, coaches, and teachers.”
Her favorite teacher was Mr. Messer because he was “awesome” and she liked his U.S. Government/Econ class. She also loved being a student aide for Mr. Jones. Fairchild will be attending SUU in the fall.
Nicholas Leavitt said his favorite part of high school was the social aspect of seeing his friends and playing sports.
“My favorite teacher is Mrs. Fullmer because she is nice and helped me a lot with my AP Stats and Computer Science Classes,” Leavitt said.
Leavitt added that he plans on attending BYU-I and serving an LDS mission.
Earlier in the evening, the graduates gathered in their vehicles, lining up along Lewis Street just south of downtown Overton for a grand procession to the high school. The main street was lined with local residents cheering on the graduates and wishing them well.
Congratulations MVHS Class of 2023!
