The 2013 graduating class at the Harlan Community High School raised the bar for future graduating classes Sunday, when it comes to doing something notable on graduation day. The class had been encouraged to do something special while walking up to the podium to get their diploma. Harlan Community School District Superintendent Justin Wagner said it was a challenge from him and High School Principal John Connell to do something special.
He says they didn’t really know what to expect following the practice ceremony as they trusted to the students since it was a special class. Wagner said the first student came up and shook his hand and then gave him money and it kept going for the whole 128 students. He said a few of them told him the money was for the Wounded Warrior Project. (http://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/)
Wagner said he was really proud of the kids who stepped up. He called it special since it was the entire class and not just one student. The class raised a total $359 and has their efforts had a ripple effect, with Wagner saying he would match the dollars raised by the students. In addition, an anonymous donor from Sioux City has promised to match the combined donations of the students and Wagner.
Wagner said the moment certainly made a lasting impression as the class made their mark. He said he saw the video of the standing ovation which went on for about 38 seconds. Adults were crying and students were emotional. He said it was a special time.
(Joel McCall/KNOD)