Sidney Celebrates High School Graduation

The graduation of just more than 100 Sidney High School students was highlighted by four valedictorian speeches during commencement on Sunday afternoon.

Aubrey Kessel thanked teachers, maintenance, kitchen workers and bus drivers. She especially thanked parents.

She also thanked Google and other on-line sources to find information. "A huge thank you to caffeine," Kessel joked.

She urged classmates to find happiness whether it's through their jobs or hobbies. "Because every single one of us deserves to be happy."

Skylar Petrik pointed out that graduates didn't get to this point on their own. He talked about the importance of relationships.

"Life can be very hard, it's even harder when you try to do it alone," Petrik said.

He mentioned the importance of teachers, family and friends.

"Our graduation was a team effort," Petrik said. "Healthy relationships will advance your life in ways you wouldn't think possible."

Shelby Reidle urged classmates to work out of their comfort zone and not to be afraid of failure.

"Challenge yourself in order to better yourself," Reidle said. "Failure isn't the end of the world. It's better to fail and learn than not to try something new at all."

Sarah Turek told graduates to set goals and not to settle for less than their best.

"A goal without a plan is just a wish," Turek said.

She added not to do things only because it's popular. "Do things that are worthwhile and fun."

Salutatorian Tenna Cooley's speech included the quote from basketball great Michael Jordan, "If you're trying to achieve, there will be roadblocks. I've had them; everybody has had them. But obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it."