Mark Webber | The Republic The 53-member Class of 2024 file into the Hauser High School gymnasium Friday night.
HOPE – Small, but mighty.
That’s how the principal of Hauser High School describes the 53 seniors in the Class of 2024 who graduated during Friday’s commencement in the school’s gymnasium.
The reason why principal Kris Fortune chose the word “mighty” is that the small group of outgoing seniors have already been awarded over $1.3 million in scholarships and grants.
“That is super impressive,” Fortune said. “Quite the accomplishment.”
This year’s valedictorian is Isabella Kilps, daughter of Andy and Karen Kilps. In her address, Kilps took note of the many adults who say high school gave them the best days of their lives.
“Try not to solely focus on its faults or even romanticize your high school experience,” Kilps told her former classmates. “To be totally real, it wasn’t perfect, but there were many good and memorable moments. Looking forward, you can have hope for your future because the best days are yet to come.”
Salutatorian Colin Kistler, son of Ryan and Lori Kistler, drew parallels between his challenges while competing on Hauser’s cross country and track teams to competing in life as an adult.
“Different shoes are important for different paths, so as we continue onto the next lap of the race of life, no matter what path you take, choose the right shoes that will bring you success,” Kistler said. “Remember, life is a marathon, not a sprint.”
While the graduating class is down 38% from last year, Fortune said the 86 students who received their diplomas in 2023 was one of the largest classes in Hauser’s history.
But there is no pattern developing, the principal said. It’s a natural occurrence that enrollment numbers will fluctuate from year to year, he said.
“As we look at grade levels throughout the corporation, we have some that are higher and some that are lower,” Fortune said. “No rhyme or reason, really.”
Current projections indicate the number of Hauser graduates in 2025 will rise back into the mid-70s, according to the principal.
