BIGGS, CA (MPG) – The mighty Wolverines of Biggs High School Class of 2022 have graduated!

Biggs held their commencement ceremonies Friday, June 3rd, at the Biggs High School Stadium. As guests arrived, they were greeted by the pre-recorded messages of each graduate thanking their families, teachers and mentors for their support and love along their journey to this milestone.

As commencement proceedings began, a welcome message was shared in both English and Spanish, courtesy of students Angelica DelaCerda and Esther Gonzales.

Next, Baylee Bowles and Riley Rutherford would take to the podium for an incredibly moving tradition at Biggs Graduations. Speaking to families and especially to mothers, Rutherford and Bowles would say, “No one can love us more. No one can hug us tighter. No one can understand us better.” Bowles and Rutherford thanked students’ families and mothers with, “Your babies are now blooming into beautiful young adults, and we owe it all to you.” Graduates left their places on the stage and traveled into the stands, presenting flowers to their families in a moment that would leave few dry eyes in the crowd.

Speakers Ashley Rudd and Zonah Headley would continue down a sentimental path, speaking about the years and events shared as the Class of 2022 grew up together in the small town and classrooms of Biggs.

Katelyn Ryan, Biggs Salutatorian would speak to her classmates and crowd, followed by Valedictorian Cody Roles. “Today we become Biggs high school graduates,” said Roles. “We are here tonight to celebrate our achievements, and victories, both individually and collectively, that will forever become our high school memories.”

He spoke about how approaching adversities with an attitude of gratitude can influence well-being and success. Roles would say, “A notable quote reads ‘when life throws stones at you, collect them and build an empire’. Over the past four years we all have experienced the rough side of stones being thrown at us, specifically over the 2+ years navigating throughout the horrific pandemic challenges.” He continued, “You see, we do not get to decide what stones life will throw at us, or when, only what we will choose to do with them once they are thrown at us.”

When the time came for students to receive their diplomas, each was given the spotlight and their future plans were shared with the audience.  Early celebrations began at this point, as students and the crowd shot off confetti, and even fireworks, as the graduates walked across the stage.

Superintendent, Doug Kaelin would end the ceremony with the declaration of completion and congratulate the Biggs High School Class of 2022. Graduates would wrap proceedings up with the rock song “Today” by The Smashing Pumpkins and gather with friends and family to celebrate their accomplishment.