Commencement service sends 2025 graduates to new challenges

SIDNEY -- Saturday morning, Sidney High School seniors were congratulated for their achievements in 2025 Commencement Ceremony.

The service opened with Superintendent Andrew Farber welcoming students and guests.

"Parents, teachers, distinguished guests, and most importantly the graduates of Sidney Public Schools 2025 welcome, and thank you for joining us. Today, we gather to celebrate an extraordinary milestone, an achievement that you all worked hard for, and that's graduation," Farber said in his welcoming address.

He said if there is ever a time to acknowledge the moment, that they love "Celebration" by Cool & the Gang, Commencement was the moment.

"This diploma you're receiving isn't just a piece of paper. It is a passport. It's a one-way ticket to opportunity, to new adventures, and to the next chapter of your life," he said.

Salutatorian Robert James Stevens was recognized, followed by a musical selection by Sidney State of Mind. 

Valedictorian Deanna Horst then spoke.

"The last few weeks of school, I was stewing over what to write in this speech. At one point, I was told to just write what I know. I know that most of the cap-wearing girls sitting in front of me were frantically fixing their hair before entering the gym today, including me. I know that ironically the only thing our class was on time for was practice for getting out of here," Horst said.

She then quoted J. R.R. Tolkien.

"In the wise words of J.R.R. Tolkien, 'home is now behind you. The world is ahead.' Though Tolkien says home is behind you, we must never forget it," she said.

Principal Ryan Plummer recognized academic awards and military commitments. The presentation of the Class of 2025 was done by Class President Jordan DeNovellis and Vice-President Robert Stevens. Presentation of Diplomas was conducted by School Board President Michael Palmer.