Outdoor commencement shines brightly on La Conner high graduates

It has often been dark and gloomy during the COVID-19 pandemic, but Friday was not one of those times.

At least not for members of the La Conner High Class of 2021 and their families and friends.

It was, instead, a rare opportunity to celebrate. Together.

Bright sunshine and a spectacular view of Mt. Baker greeted the class and about 500 people attending outdoor commencement exercises at Whitaker Field for what was an often emotional 75-minute program.

Valedictorian Sarah Malcomson and salutatorian MacQuaid Hiller captured the mood perfectly.

“The last year and a half,” Malcomson said, referring to the virus crisis and its various degrees of social distancing and lockdowns, “has been pretty eventful – or uneventful if, like me, you’ve spent most of your time in your room.”

Malcomson and her classmates ended their junior year and began as seniors last fall taking courses remotely. They only returned to in-person instruction on a part-time basis in March.

“It’s so great,” Hiller stressed, “to see all of you in person.”

Malcomson and Hiller noted that while much was lost to the pandemic, a sense of mission, tireless resilience and embracing technology made gains possible, too.

“We pulled together as a group,” Hiller said, “and have done great things.”

Anna Jane Thulen and Katie Watkins, the latter of whom is this year’s recipient of the coveted McMillan Scholarship, said in their shared welcome address that the class learned to “roll with the punches” delivered by the pandemic and eventually grasped they were completing high school during an historically significant period.

Thulen and Watkins, with Malcomson, Hiller, Salena Bailey, Ann Cloonan (who celebrated her birthday on commencement day), Max Drews, Andre Knudson, Avery Sloniker and Isabelle Williams garnered special recognition from Principal Kathy Herrera for becoming members of the National Honor Society.

The class was formally presented by La Conner Schools Superintendent Rich Stewart, interim superintendent while a selection process was conducted that resulted in the hiring of Will Nelson, from Arlington. He starts July 1 but attended Friday.

Stewart, known for his self-deprecating humor, alluded to the brilliant early evening sun at his back.

“I just want to make sure you all have your sunglasses on before I remove my hat,” he quipped.

Stewart quickly assumed a serious tone, extending thanks to La Conner students, staff and parents for their support during the pandemic year, telling them, “It’s been a blessing to serve as your superintendent this year. In my 46 years in education this has been the most challenging but also most satisfying year of my career.”

The most emotional moment of commencement came when school counselor Lori Buher announced Daniel Rapada’s turn to receive his diploma from Herrera. As Rapada, who has bravely battled serious illnesses since he was in middle school, approached much of the way with aid of a walker, the applause drew steadily louder until it erupted into a standing ovation. He walked unaided across the platform.

“He always sets his goals so high and somehow he finds the strength to achieve them.” Rapada’s mom, Sally Wilbur, said of her son afterward.

Next up for Rapada is enrollment at Northwest Indian College to earn prerequisites toward medical school and career as an anesthesiologist.

Buher noted that two members graduated early. One, James Carlton, entered the U.S. Marine Corps and has completed basic training. Carlton had contacted Buher and asked to share his experiences with the class during commencement.

Buher expected a paragraph.

“He sent six pages,” she chuckled. “I love that kid but I’m not going to be able to read it here tonight.”

She summarized Carlton’s submission, highlighting his successful transition to military life.

After receiving their diplomas, the class was honored with two songs performed by the Swinomish Canoe Family.

Prior to their performance, Tribal Cultural Affairs Director Aurelia Bailey offered thanks to the district staff.

“Your hard work during the pandemic,” she said, “made it possible for students to get where they are today. This is what our ancestors prayed for, that our children would be educated and honored for their achievements.”

She sought and received applause in support of relatives of graduates who had traveled from as far as North Dakota and New Mexico to attend.

Graduates Isaiah Adams, Hailey Merritt and Elijah Porter had the last word – or words – providing closing comments.

“Guys,” Merritt said, turning to face her classmates, “we did it. After everything we’ve gone through, we’ve earned this moment.”

That was their cue for the traditional graduation cap toss.

The audience, in turn, tipped its caps to a class that was the very definition of perseverance.