The graduating class of the West Desert High School in Juab County's West Desert was 50 percent larger this year than last year. But then, it's easy to boost the percentage when you have only three graduating seniors.
Some years there have only been two.Thursday, May 24, when the three students participated in graduation ceremonies they had the usual festivities. Arnold Timm, son of Richard and Linda Timm, Callao, was valedictorian and Stella Bates, daughter of Jerald and Marlene Bates, Grady, was salutatorian.
Dana Lee, daughter of Russ and Mary Okones, Marble Rock, Iowa, lives in Callao and has been her class representative and a cheerleader.
All three graduates plan to attend college. All three spoke at the commencement exercises.
Arnold said even though he had graduated from a small school he thought he had received a high quality education equal to that provided by larger metropolitan schools.
He said he appreciates the United States and the education system, and thanked those who made his education possible, particularly Principal Ed Alder.
Arnold has been studentbody president this year, lettered in basketball, cross-country skiing, track and football. He was awarded a scholarship to attend Dixie College, where he will major in music.
Bates was secretary in school government when she was in the tenth grade and historian while in the ninth grade. She lettered in basketball and cross-country skiing. She will also attend Dixie College.
Leah Leyland, former school board member, was the keynote speaker and spoke of the importance of education the freedom which makes such education possible.
The girl's chorus, boy's chorus, mixed chorus, and younger student chorus all performed musical numbers at the graduation exercises.