Lowell High School Sends off 147th Class
Ean Wolters, graduating senior, shakes the hand of Lowell Schools Board Member Laurie Kuna
22 May 2025
Justin Scott - School News
For 147 years, graduates have walked through the halls of Lowell High School for one final time, closing one chapter and beginning another. While the buildings and backdrops have evolved over the decades, the spirit and structure of graduation have remained a constant—one final moment of togetherness before the class parts ways.
On Thursday, May 22, nearly 300 Lowell High School students received their diplomas in front of family, friends, and faculty at Bob Perry Field, the school’s football stadium. It was, as always, a bit of a weather guessing game, with light drizzle coming and going throughout the day. But as the skies held, the anticipated outdoor ceremony proceeded as planned—a decision that had seemed increasingly likely throughout the week.
Though the weather was slightly cooler and windier than in recent years, it didn’t dampen the energy or enthusiasm of the event. The LHS band played the familiar strains of Pomp and Circumstance, while the choir opened the ceremony with a stirring rendition of the National Anthem.
This year’s graduation marked the final one for LHS Principal Steve Gough, who is moving into a new role within Lowell’s central office. In his remarks, Gough praised the Class of 2025 for their perseverance, spirit, and leadership, calling them “one of his all-time favorite classes.”
In a touching moment for student musicians, the band’s seniors gave their final performance as part of the ensemble, choosing music from the Broadway musical Wicked as a sentimental sendoff.
Valedictorian Conner Casarez, who also served as senior class president, was among the day’s speakers, along with vice president Leah Bryce, secretary Alexandria Roys, and public relations officer Aliina Forester. Casarez was joined at the podium by Olivia Seevers and salutatorian Gabriel Selover, each reflecting on their years at LHS with gratitude and admiration for their classmates and teachers.
The presentation of diplomas unfolded smoothly, albeit with less spectacle than in previous years. With a more confined stage setup due to ongoing construction, no students attempted the traditional backflips or choreographed stunts. Even the customary rogue beach balls—though they made a brief appearance—were subdued by the persistent wind.
Following the final handshake and the turning of tassels, Casarez officially passed the class spade to incoming senior class president Gigi Gates-Duprey, symbolizing the transition of leadership and tradition. The newly graduated Class of 2025 then made their way off the field—some with hugs, others with tears, and many with beaming smiles.
As they exited Bob Perry Field and stepped into the next stage of life, one thing remained clear: though their time as students at Lowell High School had come to a close, their connection to the school—and to each other—would endure far beyond the final notes of Pomp and Circumstance.
