It is with pride and joy that we present the 35th annual Grad Salute in this month’s edition of the St. Louis Call. This special keepsake honors the achievements of the Class of 2024, a cohort of students who faced unprecedented challenges with grace and determination.
The journey for many of you began in the shadow of a global pandemic. The Class of 2024 started high school in 2019-2020, a time when the world was thrown into chaos. The pandemic brought with it a slew of uncertainties, disruptions and difficulties. Remote learning, social distancing and a complete overhaul of the traditional high school experience became the new normal. Despite these hurdles, you adapted, persevered and have now emerged victorious.
Your accomplishments are a testament to your resilience and adaptability. You have navigated an educational landscape that was continuously evolving, often in real time. Your ability to overcome these obstacles and still achieve your academic goals is nothing short of inspirational. You have not only met but exceeded the expectations placed upon you.
As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, whether it be higher education, entering the workforce or other exciting ventures, remember the strength that brought you to this point. The skills you’ve developed during challenging times – adaptability, resilience and determination – will serve you well in all your future endeavors.
The St. Louis Call celebrates students from Affton, Bayless, Rockwood Summit, Fox C-6, Hancock, Lindbergh, Mehlville and Oakville. We are proud to present a mix of class photos and graduates’ names, continuing our tradition of honoring the hard work and achievements of our local high school students.
Graduates, you have earned your place in this annual salute, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. Your journey is just beginning, and the world awaits your unique contributions. Take the lessons you’ve learned, the friendships you’ve made and the memories you’ve created, and carry them forward as you step into the future.
To the parents, teachers and community members who have supported these students, we thank you. Your encouragement and dedication have played an integral role in their success.