SparkNotes, Slater and Quizlet.
No, those aren’t the names of bands you’ve never heard of. They’re educational apps well-known to today’s high school students, and they were invaluable tools to help them navigate through the pandemic and the challenges of online learning as sophomores and juniors.
Colin Long, selected by his fellow Iola High School seniors to deliver the commencement speech at Saturday’s graduation, channeled the terminology of a new age as he challenged his classmates to lead in a new, post-pandemic era.
“We graduate with the weight of the world on our shoulders,” he said. “Now more than ever, the earth, our country and our community need us and we shall all go forth to fulfill that calling.”
Long noted that for some, graduation would be a relief. For others, it would be a bittersweet farewell. But for all, it was a transition from childhood to adulthood.
“Today we take with us everything we have ever done, everyone we have ever met and everything we have ever learned while at Iola High School.”
He encouraged his classmates to embrace the future, and embrace parents, teachers and mentors who have helped shape them.
“And most importantly, embrace one another. The people sitting around you have played a huge role in building you into the person you are today. We have traveled this journey together and though at this crossroads, every one of us must face our own path that lies ahead, we can always depend on the love and support of the friends we have made over the past 13 years.”
“WE BEGAN our high school journey in the time of fidget spinners and Fortnite,” Long said.
“And we end with Twitter and TikTok.”
He quoted Apple founder Steve Jobs: Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.
“Each and every one of us will leave our unique touch on the world,” Long continued. “I see so much potential in each and every one of you. And I know this world is going to be a better place because of each and every one of you.”
Long then talked about how the COVID-19 pandemic has shaped the class, by teaching them how to grow together and adapt to life during one of the most challenging times to ever face the world.
“We, the Class of 2022, have proven that no matter how tough the challenges, no matter how difficult or demanding the obstacles, we will overcome them and find success because we are strong, resilient and we are Iola Mustangs.”
SUPERINTENDENT Stacy Fager also spoke to the class, offering recent examples of how these students have proven they know how to advocate for a better world.
He told of a surprise visit by Sen. Jerry Moran, and how IHS Principal Scott Carson asked students to lead the tour and talk about the school district.
“I have no doubt the advocacy of these students greatly enhanced Sen. Moran’s viewpoint of the Iola school system,” Fager said.
He also talked about a recent presentation to school board members by teachers who wanted to upgrade and remodel the weight room equipment. Two seniors spoke on behalf of the plan, telling board members how it had helped them and how it would enhance education for all students.
