On May 14, 2022, Gilpin High School held their graduation ceremony for their senior class. The graduates walked across the stage and received their diplomas in front of their very proud families and friends. Congratulations Eagles! See story page 14 to 17.

We all know the song. We all know the hat. We all know the tassel. We all know the gown. The traditional American high school graduation took place at Gilpin High School on Saturday, May 14, 2022.

The song, the hat, the tassel and gown do not tell even a portion of the story. These 25 graduates have been on this path all their lives. They all have a different story or different path they have taken to get to this day.

For some students they love most classes and this school model really fits them. For others the highlight is recess, lunch and being with friends. For some sports or theater is where they have found a passion. For others they have found a passion in the automotive or construction industry. Some students go to school all day then work jobs in the evenings and on the weekends to support their families or earn money to continue their education. We acknowledge that some of the graduates have had to overcome huge challenges while on their paths. They are all to be congratulated no matter the path they have had to walk to get to graduation day.

Dusty Newberg, a Gilpin High School language arts teacher, gave the Commencement Address. She reminded the graduates and the people there to them that commencement means a new beginning. This path of life that they are on now has some new and exciting doors to open.

Mrs. Newberg gave the graduates some advice. That advice included to not be afraid of change and that the challenges you do face will help define you. She encouraged the graduates to look for fulfillment in their lives, do things that feed their soul and to practice gratitude. She also hopes that they surround themselves with people who challenge them in a good way and encourage them to be their best selves.

The graduation ceremony included a speech from the class Salutatorian William Hunt and Valedictorian Halle Yocom. The Gilpin Class of 2022 also continued the tradition of giving flowers to the people who helped them along the path to this graduation day. Diplomas were then presented to the graduates by Gilpin High School Principal Alexis Donaldson, Gilpin County School Board Members and Gilpin County School Superintendent Dr. David Mackenzie.

Mrs. Newberg ended her speech to the graduates with the encouraging lyrics of Lee Ann Womack’s song “I Hope You Dance”. A song wanting us to embrace life.

“I hope you never lose your sense of wonder.

You get your fill to eat but always keep that hunger.

May you never take one single breath for granted.

God forbid love ever leave you empty handed.

I hope you still feel small when you stand beside the ocean.

Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens.

Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance.

And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance,

I hope you dance…”

Gilpin High School Class of 2022 your community hopes as you continue on this part of life’s path that you dance and embrace life as best as you can. Congratulations to you and your families.