Wakefield-Marenisco grads receive diplomas outdoors

By P.J. GLISSON

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Wakefield - High school graduates of Wakefield-Marenisco K-12 School had to wait until Friday evening for their graduation ceremony, but they were rewarded for their patience with perfect weather in an outdoor setting overlooking Sunday Lake.

The ceremony - which normally would have taken place in the school gym in late May - was delayed due to COVID-19.

Because of related concerns about enclosed spaces, this year's event was held on the north side of the school.

The processional of students moved from inside to outside from two exit doors, with students flowing from west to east and from east to west, to meet on the school's elevated sidewalk, where a podium was placed. They then walked down the steps to sit in front of family and friends who were spread out across the lawn.

Superintendent Jason Gustafson provided the "welcome" and the main address to students, each of whom had been gifted a red rose by the school.

"Despite the beautiful setting we have, this is not the graduation ceremony we expected to have," said Gustafson.

The superintendent began by acknowledging the state mandate to close all schools as of March 16 because of the pandemic. "We entered a spring break that would seemingly never end," said Gustafson.

Nevertheless, he added that the situation provided "a unique, real-world learning experience" in which students garnered "skills and trades that will continue to benefit you" throughout life.

Gustafson told the graduates that perhaps the most important thing they have learned is "how unpredictable life is."

He added that the world will continue to offer surprises, both positive and negative. "Expect the unexpected," he warned, adding that support from school staff and students' families will never end.

"Soar high Cardinals," he concluded.

After Gustafson's speech, Head Teacher Mark Lane presented the class of 2020. Brad Dalbec, president of the board of education, then handed out diplomas to most of the students.

Brandon Yuchasz, a board trustee, presented a diploma to his son, Michael Yuchasz.

Two graduates were unable to attend the ceremony, but were recognized by Gustafson. They were Leandro Narvaez and Alex Sheehan.

Also recognized were valedictorian and class president Chloe Bachand and salutatorian Ethan Libertoski.

Remaining graduates were Brianna Cross, Devin Dalbec, Gage Delich, Alexander Erickson, Allie Goodman, Logan Hamel, Jamie Kapelka, Kaitlyn Lemerond, Dillon Makela, Morgan Miskovich and Sara Wasielewski.

Gustafson also noted all members of the board of education, as well as current and former school staff.

Lane and Brandon Makela, the school's other head teacher, handed out scholarship awards as each graduate returned to his or her seat.

The ceremony, which had started with the Pledge of Allegiance, ended with students throwing their caps in the air.