Sara Sandstrom, Gilpin County. Whenever we hear Pomp and Circumstance we sit up, listen and look for graduates in gowns. On May 15, 2021, Gilpin County High School held their commencement ceremony. Family members gathered, the traditional song was played and the senior class stood waiting to make their entrance. 

The Gilpin County School Superintendent Dr. David MacKenzie and Secondary Principal Alexis Donaldson led the secondary staff onto the football field. They were then followed by the Class of 2021. Parents and grandparents stood taking photos and hoping to catch the eye of their very special graduate.

Principal Donaldson welcomed everyone and then senior Nolan Lindberg introduced the commencement speaker, Alan Warshinsky. Mr. Warshinsky was a longtime kindergarten teacher at Gilpin Schools. His last kindergarten class was this graduating class. 

He named each of the graduates starting with the nine who were in his class. He encouraged them to always do their homework and research. If they are studying for a test or have a job interview or buying a car, do the research. Make the best decisions that you can make. 

Mr. Warshinsky then shared a rap that he wrote. It is titled What I Could Tell You. It gave the graduates lifelong advice about taking risks and when you get knocked down get back up and try again. Take care of others and always remember to love. 

The ceremony continued with senior Archer O’Brien telling the audience that the senior class will be presenting the school with a new water fountain. Salutatorian Blake Boulter and Valedictorian Damian Sonsino each gave an inspiring speech. School counselor Kim Cobb announced what each senior plans on doing after high school and if they have received any scholarships. 

Seniors then gave flowers to parents and to others who helped them get to where they are today. It is a symbol of gratitude and love to the people who they value in their lives. 

It was then time to present the diplomas to the graduates. Gilpin County School Board President Steve Boulter handed the diplomas to the students as Principal Donaldson read their names. There were lots of smiles and clapping and cheers as each senior proudly accepted the diploma and officially finished their time in high school.  

Graduating from high school is a huge milestone for the young adult as well as for the parents. The parents are enormously proud of their child’s accomplishments. There is also an element of sadness as their child moves into adulthood. For the graduate it is such an exciting time with some anxiety for the unknown mixed in. Up to this point families have had a pattern of school then summer break then back to school again. Now that is all changing. 

Gilpin Class of 2021 – take those wings that your parents and teachers have been helping you form for so many years, and fly! Embrace the changes and challenges and take some leaps of faith. Learn from your mistakes and always do your homework. 

Congratulations Gilpin County High School Class of 2021!