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.

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.