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For Nikiski High School graduates, it's all about the teachers.

"Our faculty is more like family," said valedictorian Eliza Chadwick. "It's not a teacher-student relationship, it's more like a friend-to-friend relationship."

"There has been some awesome teachers," said Walker Boyle.

Boyle, one of seven valedictorians, said many of the Nikiski High staff have great personalities, which makes class more fun.

Valedictorian Peter McKay said the small class sizes allow students to get to know their teachers well.

In his commencement speech, salutatorian Tyler Bethune said Nikiski High School was more than just a placed students learned. "It was a place we belonged," he said.

Rachel Romans, too, appreciated the more personal relationships with teachers a small school setting allowed.

"I'll miss the loving faculty and friends," she said. "It's nice living in a small town."

Romans said she plans on attending the University of Alaska Anchorage to study radiology. Romans' interest in anatomy combined with the occupation of her aunt -- an X-Ray technician -- sparked her interest in the field.

Romans said it's important to live each and every moment during high school years.

"Soak up every moment you can," she said. "Enjoy your time, it goes by fast."

Chadwick said she'll always remember her time spent on the basketball court.

"We became a family. I'm really gonna miss that," she said.

Chadwick's advice to underclassmen is to avoid cliques and bond with everyone.

"Look to those around you, don't get caught up in yourself."

Wiley Bennett, like Chadwick, will never forget his high school sports career. Bennett, who participated in basketball, soccer and football, landed in Kenai with just enough time to throw on his cap and gown. Bennett and the Bulldog soccer team competed in the Northern Lights Conference soccer tournament in Palmer earlier that day.

Bennett said he'll miss senior year. Bennett, also a valedictorian, said he plans on attending the University of Washington to major in aerospace engineering.

Boyle, a fellow teammate of Bennett, will also miss playing high school sports. Boyle played football, hockey and soccer.

Boyle said he plans on working after high school before attending college.

To Nikiski undergrads, Boyle said, "Use your time wisely. Time flies."

Denise Hamilton will always remember lunch period.

Every day, Hamilton could be seen pushing two tables together, reserving 16 seats for her friends.

Hanging out with those friends is what she said she'll miss most.

After high school, Hamilton said she plans on joining the Navy for three years.

From her time spent at Nikiski High, Hamilton has learned hard work pays off.

"Work really hard. At the end, it's rewarding to get your diploma," she said.

McKay said he will miss all the good friends he made in high school.

McKay plans on attending the University of Oregon to study computer science.

To those sophomores and juniors, McKay said, "It's just a couple more years, hang in there."

Mike Nesper can be reached at mike.nesper@peninsulaclarion.com.