MATTAWA — “There are 137 amazing graduates sitting behind me,” said Wahluke High School Principal Dr. Andie Webb as she welcomed the parents, families and friends to the graduation of the Wahluke class of 2019 on Saturday.

Love was a common theme for several of the speakers during the graduation.

“There is a lot of love in the room,” said Webb after the graduates honored their parents by giving them roses.

Class advisor Jon Breda told the students that love was one of the ways to survive their 20s.

“There’s no point in being bullheaded,” Breda said.

He also admonished them to explore, plan for the future, focus on their health and wellness and to read and read often.

“I can’t believe how fast these years have gone by,” said senior class president Wendy Castro. “Many of us have been together since kindergarten.”

“Four years ago, we came in thinking this building was huge,” said salutatorian Adilene Sandoval. “We did it all together. Together we experience life in Mattawa. Time has passed by really fast. Today is the day we say goodbye to each other.”

Co-valedictorian Juliana Mendez echoed what others had said.

“High school does pass in the blink of an eye,” said Mendez. “Now it’s over. I enjoyed the ride. Hopefully everyone of you will take advantage of this opportunity and go find live. Thank you for making these last few years memorable.”

“Four years seems like a long time,” said Rachael Maldonado, the other co-valedictorian. “Now it seems like a few months.”

Guest speaker Joe Kiesel-Nield told the graduates not to sweat trying to figure out what they will do in life.

“You’ll figure it out along the way,” Kiesel-Nield said. “The way we face challenges is what defines us. Embrace your opportunities.”

Webb closed out the speeches by saying that it is hard to let the students go. She told the students that the staff will still be there for them.

“Don’t forget us,” Webb said. “We won’t forget you.”

Rachal Pinkerton may be reached via email at rpinkerton@thesuntribune.com.