Not your ordinary graduation
The Bertha-Hewitt School graduated 28 seniors in the parking lot on May 21. Graduates and their families stayed in their cars and were escorted to their parking space that was reserved with a “little person” with a photo cut out of the senior from kindergarten. The outdoor, drive-in ceremony went well as the seniors were able to walk across the stage and get their diplomas. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Derik Kimber. Student speakers included Macie Fox, Megan McKnight, Katlyn Kyar, Kaija Weishalla and Shelby Bakken. The honored speaker was retiring teacher Steve Pauly. School Board Members Sharon Thiel and Russ VanDenheuvel handed out the diplomas. The Citizenship Award was presented to Derik Kimber and Shelby Bakken. After the ceremony was completed, the graduates were escorted through Bertha, Hewitt and Eagle Bend by all three fire departments for a parade of graduates. At top, Jared Kirscht gives a "thumbs up" after receiving his diploma. See more Bertha-Hewitt graduation photos in our print issue.