News Photo by Charles Madison Onaway High School’s Class of 2022 celebrates after graduation on Friday.

ONAWAY — Following an afternoon of high winds and storms, 39 Onaway High School seniors entered the OHS gymnasium on Friday to “Pomp and Circumstance” and came out as high school graduates.

“I made it 10 words without starting to cry,” Principal Marty Mix said during his opening remarks, drawing warm laughter from the crowd.

“In the past four years, you’ve faced so much adversity,” Mix said, commending Onaway’s graduating seniors for their efforts to maintain their education during the pandemic.

Mix was followed by Superintendent Mindy Horn, who reflected that the Class of 2022 was the first kindergarten class she saw graduate in her time with the school.

“I hope you leave today with full hearts. ‘Once a Cardinal, always a Cardinal,'” Horn said, reminding the graduating students they are always welcome.

Brief speeches were given by honor student Taylor Lawson, Salutatorian Kyli Brewbaker, and Valedictorian Maisy Heiermann.

Diplomas were presented by the Onaway Area Schools Board of Education and the graduates were announced by OHS 2023 Student Council President Mackenzie Robbins.

As students stood to turn their tassels, Mix delivered closing remarks.

“The Michigan Department of Education has set rigorous standards,” he said. “Not only have you met every requirement from our Onaway area district, but state standards as well, and that’s what has brought us to this point.”

With diplomas in hand, the Class of 2022 joined together on the school’s front lawn, tossed their caps and blasted confetti cannons moments before the rain came back.