'You conquered': East Helena HS seniors graduate under setting sun, with new chapter ahead

East Helena High School saw 133 seniors graduate on Friday evening as the sun set, their next chapters beginning with diplomas in hand and encouragement from their peers.

Some graduates donned decorated caps, colorful cords and sashes representing their achievements and feelings spanning their academic careers.

Family members and friends packed the stands inside the football stadium as others lined the track holding balloons, flowers and small pictures of their graduating loved ones.

The class of 2026 had nine valedictorians who gave encouraging speeches to their fellow graduates, reminiscing about their younger years all the way through their senior years and where they stood Friday.

The graduates and attendees heard speeches from EHHS Principal Paul Condon, keynote speaker Dougie Hall and assistant principal Trish Klock, along with songs from the school's choir and wind ensemble.

"I know some of you are truly ready to open your wings to the world of opportunities, ready to expand your horizons, ready to see and travel the world," Condon said. "Good luck doing that with no money."

Condon threw humorous subtle digs at the graduating class of 2026, and received some laughs from the crowd, but urged his students to pursue a "happy and magnificent life."

Klock had her own jokes as well, but uttered a similar message to graduates, highlighting their strengths throughout their academic years.

"You adapted, you conquered and you found a way to thrive," Klock said.