Four graduate from LaCrosse's Class of 2023

LACROSSE - Four LaCrosse graduates celebrated their next steps in life in an auditorium filled with family and friends at the LaCrosse Class of 2023 graduation ceremony Saturday, June 10, at 11 a.m.

Tanner Fleming, Isaac Damon Kobelski, Wyatt Schwartz, and Zackery Zupan all walked into the gym to Pomp and Circumstance with a standing welcome to the stage.

Isaac Kobelski stepped up to the podium, thanking the families and faculty that have been with them since the beginning. Kobelski thanked them for guiding, helping, and watching them grow.

"You've equipped us to mature into responsible young adults, and we welcome you to the graduation ceremony for the LaCrosse graduating class of 2023," he said.

Wyatt Schwartz then presented the community award by the Class of 2023 to Tami Schwartz, followed by Tanner Fleming presenting to the graduates' families.

Addressing the parents, stating that this is a big moment for the parents, whether it's a kid heading to college, starting a job, taking a gap year, or whatever else waits in the next phase of life.

"Also for us, but we've got enough attention already," Fleming said.

Fleming thanked all the parents for their sacrifice, dedication, and hard work. He thanked them for being there for them no matter what, even when it wasn't easy.

"You are our heroes; we'll always look up to you. Thank you," he said as the four graduates left the stage to hand out roses to their parents.

Principal Jordan Jennings took the podium, wishing everyone a good afternoon.

"These seniors have no doubt encountered some trials and tribulations along the way," Jennings said, "but they have persevered despite the obstacles."

Jennings noted that while some graduates had only been there briefly, others had their entire education life.

"I'm beyond happy that each of you finished your senior year as a LaCrosse student," he said, adding that his greatest desire is for each of them to develop a lifelong love for learning.

Jennings stated that they were celebrating a chapter closing and the start of a new chapter as graduating seniors.

He spoke to each student about his time with them and noted that he knew the best was yet to come.

Ms. Codi Titus then presented scholarships and awards to the four graduating seniors.

Fleming received the Frenchtown Rural Fire District Resident Firefighter Program, a three-year program. He also received LaCrosse High School Male Athlete of the Year. For scholarships, Fleming received the Jack Ferris Memorial Scholarship and the LaCrosse Scholarship Foundation Scholarship.

Kobelski received the LaCrosse Scholarship Foundation Scholarship.

Schwartz received the Toregson Memorial Award, LaCrosse Community Club Scholarship, Kelli Scharpenberg Memorial Scholarship, Bank of Eastern Washington Scholarship, Washington State Ground Water Association Scholarship, Clemente Barber Scholarship from the McGregor Company, Jack Ferris Memorial Scholarship, The Masonic Shcaolrship, Gayle Startin Memorial Scholarship, and the LaCrosse Scholarship Foundation Scholarship.

Zupan received the LaCrosse Scholarship Foundation Scholarships.

Scholarships awards came to a total of $16,750.

Mr. Doug Curtis then addressed the graduates, congratulating them and reminiscing about the times they shared during their high school years, after which Tami Schwartz presented the four their diplomas.

They turned the tassels and walked into their future, ready to take on the next chapter of their lives.