Friday, May 24 was a beautiful day for the Verndale graduation ceremony. Above, the graduates celebrated their rite of passage by throwing their caps in the air.

Alyssa Thompson, who presented the Most Influential Educator Awards, visited with family and friends during the reception following graduation.

Autumn Poppe received her diploma and a huge happy smile from her dad Bill and a scream of joy from her mom Brandy. This year's graduates are off on new adventures including college, working and traveling.