Shoshone-Bannock High School graduates get ready to create change
The Sho-Ban High Class of 2024 had 28 graduates at their ceremony on Thursday, May 23.
By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — The Shoshone-Bannock Jr./Sr. High School Class of 2024 was encouraged to create change throughout the commencement on Thursday, May 23.
Before family, friends, and staff, 28 graduates entered the Blaine Dixey Gymnasium through a balloon arch of red, black, and white to begin the ceremony to the songs of Ghost Canyon singers.
Many of them proudly wore elaborately beaded caps adorned with an eagle feather.
Tyson Shay was the Master of Ceremonies and tribal elder Ernest Wahtomy offered the prayer.
The crowd was welcomed by local royalty Miss Shoshone-Bannock Develynn Hall, Sho-Ban High School Queen first attendant Hazebah Wahtomy, and Sho-Ban Jr. High Princess Ariauna Pebeahsy.
Fort Hall Business Council Chairman Lee Juan Tyler told graduates to find their purpose in life, seek their fortune, and set short and long-term goals. He ended by singing for them.
Sunshine Shepherd was the keynote speaker, she’s the K-12 STEM Coordinator for Idaho National Laboratory and works to provide outreach and educational program opportunities to schools, communities, and organizations. She’s currently working on her doctorate in education from Idaho State University.
Shepherd’s message was to embrace change as it’s inevitable.
“It’s often the catalyst for growth and opportunity,” she said, adding the ability to adapt is a crucial skill they’ll all need. She wants them to be unafraid of stepping out of their comfort zone and exploring new possibilities.
She urged them to pursue their passion as it’s the driving force to success and happiness.
She said they’re all lifelong learners, whether that be in classrooms, schools, or at home. Learning never ends.
She hopes they’re all thinking of college, trades, or some kind of certification, as education is something no one can take from you.
She commended them for making it to graduation despite all the obstacles and to never underestimate the power of perseverance. She reminded them to always value relationships and nurture them. She said it was important to surround oneself with people who inspire and believe in you.
Unique Jim proudly wears her traditional Navajo dress as she
enters the gym.
“Always strive to be successful and for excellence. Mediocrity is never an option. We, all in this room, have high expectations for all of you. Set your expectations high for yourself and work diligently to achieve them. Maintain the discipline it takes to get where you want to be,” she said.
When moving forward, she emphasized giving back by positively impacting the world and the community. Finally, she advised graduates to always take pride in themselves.
Teacher Mikel Green gave remarks on the success of Sho-Ban’s STEM programs. She acknowledged the school board and teachers for their roles in the work and mentioned they received the STEM Impact Award.
Salutatorian Destinee Whiteman said she came to Sho-Ban her sophomore year and remembers being quiet and shy. She opened up after seeing how welcoming all the students and staff were. She took advantage of the opportunities offered and did nursing, welding, multiple dual enrollment classes, and did an internship through INL. She thanked the teachers, staff, and her family. She talked about how her classmates all became a family by supporting one another. She wished them success in the future in whatever they choose to do. Her message to underclassmen was to focus on school and keep their grades up.
Teland Brunette scooters through the halls of Sho-Ban.
Valedictorian Alyssa Goodvoice began her speech with a quote by Actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who said, “If you can do what you do best and be happy, you’re further along in life than most people.”
She said over the years they’ve faced many challenges, but they made it out strong.
She admitted to being scared when she first came to Sho-Ban but found the school’s motto true, “We are a small school, but a big family.”
She expressed gratitude to her grandmother, Emmy Bitt, the school staff, and her peers, who she wants to see do their best and be happy.
Graduates in their beaded caps.
Next, school board members and the Fort Hall Business Council presented grads with their diplomas.
Former Sho-Ban teacher Ed Galindo, PhD engaged the crowd with jokes and closing remarks.
He was honored to be associated with Sho-Ban and taught many students. About 20 years ago the school was put on the map by being the first and only American Indian school to put an object into space. They accomplished this not only once, but five times with the U.S. Space Shuttle and a Russian Rocket.
He said it was hard to do and tells the story in his book, “Children of the Stars,” which is available on Amazon with proceeds going to his foundation that sponsors Native scholars.
Scarlette Stagner raises her diploma in celebration.
He has another book called “Dance of the Salmon,” about his teacher and student-led determination to help an endangered species.
He told graduates they could do hard things and to continue the traditions of their relatives.
“I cannot wait to see what gift you possess and I cannot wait for you to share that gift,” he said.
Galindo said he was proud of the graduates, the school, and those who participated in the space projects as they’re still in the books at NASA.
Sho-Ban staff presented Galindo with a Pendleton for sharing his words and knowledge with the crowd.
After the ceremony, graduates and their families gathered for hugs and photos. In the cafeteria, graduates displayed their accomplishments on tables. School staff served cake to conclude the evening celebration.
