Havre High grads urged to follow their motto and to leave a trail
By Tim Leeds
Axel Schmaing encouraged the Havre High School seniors to be true to their motto during the graduation ceremonies at the high school Sunday.
The graduating class of 164 seniors chose "Don't go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." Schmaing said being pathfinders is an admirable ambition, and he added that although not all can be pathfinders, maintaining the path once it is found is also admirable.
Superintendent Kirk Miller introduced Schmaing, who, for the third time in his more than 30 years at Havre High, addressed a graduating class. Miller also congratulated the class, commenting that it had seen some major changes in the school district in its time. Miller said the class also helped to make the changes and to make them positive. He congratulated the students on their many achievements, academically and in their activities, while they have been in the Havre schools.
Havre High Principal Jim Donovan also thanked and congratulated the class during his presentation of the class before the diplomas were awarded. Havre High teachers Brett Hamilton and Peggy Safley read the names of the graduates while trustees Aileen Couch, Kathie Newell and Denise Thompson presented them with their diplomas.
The Havre High School Symphonic Band, under the direction of Ron Coons, played the processional and recessional for the ceremony, and also played the Havre High school song and "Battle Hymn of the Republic" following the pledge of allegiance, led by 2001-2002 Student Body President Jayla McPherson.
The Havre High School A Cappella Choir, under the direction of Frank Payn, performed the native chant "Carnival' Brazilia" following Schmaing's address.
