Six seniors crossed the stage during a commencement ceremony held last Tuesday, May 20, at Ninilchik School.

Jacob Dial, language arts teacher and this year’s graduation speaker, spoke to the closeness of the graduating class and the larger community that they are a part of, and said he hoped he and the other teachers at Ninilchik School were able to offer the seniors the sort of knowledge and preparation that they deemed useful.

“Honestly, it most likely wasn’t even a part of any assignment or test. I hope it was a moment when you had the choice to choose between the truth and something that was false. I hope it was a chance to do the right thing, do something good, and you were able to do exactly that,” he said. “This is what I and all of us who get to watch you move forward wish for this graduating class.”

Principal Sheri Maynard said that, when she looked at each of the graduates, she saw a group of unique individuals, each with their own story, talents and dreams.

“In a small school like ours, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing your journey up close,” she said. “Through it all, you’ve demonstrated resilience, determination and a spirit that makes our school so special.”

She encouraged the seniors to remember the lessons they’ve learned at Ninilchik School, to remember the importance of perseverance and kindness, the value of community, and to always believe in their ability to achieve their dreams.

“The world you are entering is full of both opportunities and challenges … But I have no doubt that you are ready,” she said. “Don’t be afraid to take risks, to step outside your comfort zone and to follow your own path — and never forget the people who have helped you along the way.”

In her valedictorian speech, Grace Kaiser illustrated Maynard’s advice by giving thanks to all the people her in life who she said helped her to achieve “this wonderful milestone.”

“When I first started my freshman year, I couldn’t imagine myself to be where I am today,” she said. “But here I am.”

Kaiser was presented with multiple scholarships during the commencement ceremony, including the Ninilchik School Fund Scholarship, the Ninilchik Domestic Engineers Scholarhship, and the Erling Kvasnikoff Scholarship.

Ira Iwerks was also awarded a Ninilchik School Fund Scholarship.

Ninilchik School Class of 2025

Isabell Hooton

Marcus Hunt

Ira Iwerks

Grace Kaiser

Michael Nalewako

Max Russell