Newcastle High School Class of 2025 graduates

At the end of every academic year high school seniors enjoy one of their brightest and special ceremonies– graduation. 

This is a chance for every senior to be honored for the accomplishments they achieved and the impact they made on their friends, family and school community. 

Newcastle ISD held their graduation ceremony Friday, May 24 in the school gymnasium. 

Graduates Kaitlyn Alton, Taylor Blair, Benjamin Burk, Alyssa Carter, Mattie Dollar, Jasmine Hammond, Elizabeth May, Lucas Owen, Morgan Plunket, Hayden Rodgers, Ashleigh Taylor, Gaidan Turner, Payton Welsh and Buckley Whitaker came down the aisle to "Pomp & Circumstance" surrounded by admiring family, friends and loved ones. 

After this it was time for graduate speeches. 

First up was salutatorian Burk. He gave many thanks to those who supported him on his journey and also gave a heartfelt farewell and hopeful message to his fellow graduates. 

“We didn’t come this far, just to come this far,” Burk said. “Whatever journey life takes you on, keep in mind it’s okay to be happy. It’s up to you to see the good in every day. I want to see each and every one of you win as well.” 

After this it was class valedictorian Taylor’s turn. Taylor gave a multitude of thanks for everyone who not only helped her grow, but gave her the best memories of her life along the way.

“To my close friends, peers and those who are like family to me, thank you,” Taylor said. “From overnight walk-ins and spontaneous events at church, to rolling around the school in chairs to escape never ending classes, each one or you has made my time, whether in Newcastle, Graham or anywhere else truly memorable.” 

Taylor also gave a special shout out to her dad, for being her biggest inspiration and always pushing her to dream big and pursue her dreams. 

Guest speaker Aaron Gowens was up after the student speakers, and he gave each of them some wise words about service. 

“Whatever you’re going to do, whatever you have planned for your life, I know it’s going to be fantastic, but my encouragement to you tonight is to take your greatness and serve while you are fulfilling your calling,” Gowens said. 

Gowens took time telling each of the graduates their best qualities and how to use them in their lives ahead. 

After this, the seniors were presented with their academic and athletic scholarships as well as associate degrees. 

Dana Prochaska of Ranger College said that the Newcastle graduates racked up around $300,000 in terms of scholarships. 

Each senior was also individually honored for their various achievements over their time at NHS represented by their chords. 

After that was the main event, principal Glen Hutchins and interim superintendent Ted West presented each of the graduates their diplomas. 

Hutchins ended the night by having the seniors flip their tassels and just like that, the latest group of Newcastle students became alumni.