Farmington High School graduates largest class in school history

Farmington’s Class of 2025 began high school just as the world reeled from the COVID-19 pandemic. The students lost sports seasons, school dances, and time in classrooms—but not their spirit. A record-breaking 329 students who marched to the familiar processional “Pomp and Circumstance” performed by the FHS band under the conductorship of Assistant Band Director Elliot Naes later turned their tassels, leaving their mark with academic and athletic accolades throughout a uniquely challenging high school journey.

Student Council President Colvin Follis said in her opening remarks, “Today, we walk not with backpacks, but with our futures. We are far more than just a number. We were just in 7th grade when the pandemic hit. But we thrived despite this challenge and continue to do amazing things.”

She expressed gratitude to those who had been chauffeurs, supporters, and role models, cheering students on in times of triumph and helping in moments of struggle.
 “Your endless encouragement and countless hours of support have not gone unnoticed, and we hope that today is just as meaningful to you as it is for us. To our teachers and staff, thank you for your dedication. You’ve challenged us not only to succeed academically, but to grow into the people we are becoming,” she said.

Superintendent’s perspective

Superintendent Dr. Kyle Gibbs delivered an emotional address, speaking to families gathered for the commencement exercises, not just as a school leader, but as a parent of one of the graduates.

“Take a moment to remember the first day of kindergarten, those concerts, field trips, and chaotic drop-off lines,” he said. “Take pride in the incredible young person your child has become. Finally, to the class of 2025, it has been a joy to serve as your leader over the past two years and get to know many of you. Your triumphs in so many ways are a testament to the talent and tenacity within each of you. I wish you all the best.”

College degrees earned

Dr. Joe Gilgour, President of Mineral Area College (MAC), recognized 36 students who graduated with associate degrees before even receiving their high school diplomas.

“Mineral Area College and Flat River Junior College, our predecessor, have been serving this community for over 100 years, and we go to a lot of commencements and graduations to honor and recognize those students who have completed an associate’s degree while in high school. More students earned dual degrees at Farmington than at any other partner school,” said Gilgour. “They were in sports, theater, band, and church—and they also graduated from college. That’s something worth shouting about.”

Missouri Baptist University is another community partner with FHS. Miss Kim Cochran represented MBU at the podium to recognize Noah Degonia, who earned an associate degree from the university.

In her remarks, she said, “Missouri Baptist University is an evangelical Christian liberal arts institution and has its purpose, the offering of programs of study leading to professional certificates, undergraduate degrees, and graduate degrees. Our university is committed to enriching its students’ lives spiritually, intellectually, and professionally, and to preparing students to serve in a global and culturally diverse society. Our core purpose is to teach, empower, and inspire students to serve and engage in lifelong learning. Although our main campus is located in St. Louis, we’re pleased to partner with the Farmington School District to offer dual-credit courses to high school students.

“This year, there were four seniors from Farmington who earned our recognition of a certificate for earning 12 hours of college credit, or more, from MBU before graduating from high school. What a great accomplishment. In addition, there is one student here at Farmington High School who earned an associate’s degree from MBU.”

Words of wisdom from class presidents

2025 Senior Class President Jace Amsden offered encouragement to underclassmen and gratitude to peers.

“My challenge to the junior class is to enjoy every moment next year. Senior year flies by,” he said. “Try something new. Be involved. Farmington gives you everything—so take it.”

To his fellow graduates, he closed with a message of hope: “Remember where you came from. Let’s go out, represent Farmington well, and chase those dreams.”

Niyah Hayward, incoming senior class president, accepted the challenge with conviction.

“The Class of 2026 is ready,” Hayward said. “We’ll step up, say yes more often, and make every moment count. You have impacted these halls more than you can imagine through your uplifting attitude, fun approach to life, and your drive to make things happen. Whether it was leading pep rallies, performing on stage, organizing service projects, or just being there for each other, you made it clear that high school is what you make of it.”

She closed with, “As we are all moving into a new chapter of life, I am reminded of Proverbs 3:5-6, which says, ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your path straight.’ This verse is a great reminder that no matter what lies ahead, you are not alone. Remember that God loves you and is for you; He has a plan for you. To the class of 2025, thank you for leading us. Thank you for challenging us.”

Special speaker

Teacher of the Year 2025, Dr. Brian Reeves, who announced his retirement after 27 years of service as an educator, was selected by students to be their commencement speaker.

He admonished the graduates to remember four key points. “First, success isn’t a straight line. It’s more like my handwriting on a whiteboard. Barely legible, but somehow it gets the point across. Second, the best opportunities often come disguised as challenges and failures. Third, when life gets tough, channel your inner Sisyphus and keep pushing that boulder with a smile.  Fourth, enjoy the everyday mundane parts of your life. Frankly, that’s most of our lives. Most days aren’t momentous like today, but enjoy the time with your friends, family, and co-workers,” he said.

“Life goes so fast. Trust me. Finally, as you leave these halls, remember this: life is like a philosophy class. Confusing at first, makes more sense over time, but there’s always someone in the back pretending to understand it all. Congratulations, class of 2025.”

He offered a final, light-hearted farewell. “First, success isn’t a straight line. It’s more like my handwriting on a whiteboard.”

Knight of the Year presentation

Dr. Roy Northern, FHS Assistant Principal, said he felt privileged to introduce the 2025 Knight of the Year, the most prestigious student honor that can be awarded. This tradition allows faculty to nominate and select the student who best exemplifies the qualities of what it means to be a Knight. The award this year went to Kaesen McClain, a standout sprinter, student council leader, and servant-hearted role model.

“Winners excel in academics, activities, overall character, and represent their peers in many positive ways,” he said. “Here’s what teachers had to say about this year’s Knight of the Year. Their comments shared a common theme, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between academic excellence, sports, and other school activities, as well as the character and respect shown to others. One teacher noted they were always kind, polite, and respectful, while another added that, beyond being a good student or a good athlete, our Knight of the Year was just a good human being.”

Describing McClain as a role model and leader, one teacher said he naturally attracted the attention of his peers, but always chose to use that advantage for good. Another said he is the kind of person who makes others feel included, shows up with a positive attitude, and has zero ego.

Finale

Overall, the Class of 2025 received $1.5 million in scholarships with 329 graduates, 10 all-star athletes, and 6 enlisting in the military. The class also volunteered 7,490 hours of community service.

After a moving rendition of the school song, the crowd rose for one final act of gratitude. The graduates stood and turned to face their families.

Cheers erupted as students waved to teary-eyed parents, grandparents, and others who had come to witness the achievement of an academic milestone. Then, the moment came: “Class of 2025,” the announcer called, “you may now move your tassels. You are officially graduated.”

Caps flew. Families hugged. The future began for the Class of 2025, and the world awaited.

The Class of 2025

There are symbols beside the names of some graduates, recognizing various accomplishments achieved.

Students who are members of the National Honor Society are marked *
Graduates joining Military Service marked [*]

Students with MAC 42-hour College Block marked #
Students with MAC / MBU Associate of Arts Degree marked =
Students graduating with CNA Certification marked (c)

Elizabeth Claire Abel; Lillian Grace Abel; Caroline Olivia Adams; Kyeler Aders; Sara Akins; Lennon Michael Alimo; Jace Wisdom William Amsden; Emma Grace Anderson*; Emma Claire Anderson; Reanna Anderson; Brandon Christopher Arena
Ravin Machelle Armantrout; Sarina Neveah Aston; Aryka Renee Ayers; Wyatt Daniel Azinger; Mackenzie Diana Backer=; Coleen Phoenix Baga-An; Owen Matthew Barber; Hunter Lee Barron; Nataligh Bates; Ryan Mikel BeAndrews; Jaggar Barrett Beard
Dakota Levitt; Shane Bell; Corbin Isaac Bellew; Braydon Lynn Bennett; Brystol Steven Bequette; Lillian Cai Betz-Bacon*; Keagan Zachary Bieller; Akasha Biesemeyer; Keagan Hunter Bishop; Bryce Hunter Bloom*=; Finnly Ava Blue*=; Landon Michael Bobbett; Gage Alexander Boren; Trevor Bott; Brenden Chase Boughan; Isaiah JustinMichael Boyer; Madison Marie Bradley; Nolan Thomas Bradley; Victoria Leigh Brancefield; Teagen Dominic Brand; Noah Christopher Brennon=; Noah James Brewer; Donivyn Lukas Bridges; Caden David Bright; Lilly Brockland=; Chase Douglass Buchanan; Patsy Esther Burch; Freya Renèe Burmingham; Tatyana Nichole Butler; Mikayla Dakota Rayne Byland; Nickolai Evan Cain; Louis Al Cain; Adriana Ree Cantagi=; Kinsleigh Madison Carpenter; Mercedes Christine Carter; Rebecca Castro; Kendra RaeLynn Chronister; Addison Hope Clark; Cianna Lynnae Clowdus*=; Tyler Lee Comte; Ava Louise Cooper *=; Olivia Marie Corcoran [*]; Corey Davis Crawford; Tristan Jace Crawford; Alexander Cummings=; Kyle Weslee Currington; Ella Jane Davis*=; Kalei May Davis=; James Dean Davis; Jason Wayne Declue; Noah Degonia=; Christian Tyler DeNoyer; Aubrye Ann DeOrnellis(c); Noah Desalvo
Zadrian Dodd; Ian Michael Doe; Laela Jane Donley; Jesse Wyatt Dougherty; LilyAnna Dowell =; Mackenzie Rae Drinnin *=; Brett Danuel Drye; Sarina Lynn Dudek; Kathleen Hope Duncan; Jordan Alexander Easter; Jack Harrison Embry; Jacob Wyatt English; Ryan Renee Eudy; Mallory Ellen Felker; Brenna Isabel Files *=; Hayden Fingerhut; Colvin Lee Follis *; Caylea Elizabeth Foster; Tyler Steven Fox; Destiny Jade Fuson; Zoey Renee Gerwitz *; Keaton Joseph Gibbs; Casey Allen Dean Gilbert [*]; Emilee Sue Gillam; Leslianne Jean Gillam; Carma Gillespie; Landen Michael Glore; Justin Goff; Brookelynn September Golden; Mason Alexander Gowen; Skyler LeeAnn Gray (c); Aiden Michael Green; Meilyn Grace Grieshaber; Thomas Aiden Griffith; Jaxson Vance Grimes; Trinity Nichole Grisham=; Emily Mae Gross; Cole Robert Guenther; Nathaniel Shane Guthrie; Eva Victoria Guzman=; Jackson Steven Haas; Adam Scott Hafley; Danielle Jenet Hagood; Aiden Lee Halter; Claire Grace Hampton*=; Aubrey Noelle Hand; Magdalene Bly Hand; Jacob David Hannah; Hailey Alexis Harmon; Nathaniel Harrison; Christopher Hartmann; Olivia Jane Hartupee *=; Skylar Hastings(c); Audrey Rose Hawthorn; Jeremiah Thomas Hawthorn; Logan Dwayne Hedrick(c); Alyssa Ann-Marie Henderson =; Luis Hernandez – Hein; Ryleigh; Morgan Hilterbrand; Shaun Anthony Hilton; Calvin Keith Howard; Aubrey Sophia Huskey; Elliot Lyn Inman=; Derek Ryan Ivy; Jordan Deumu Jack; Brenden Scott Jenkins; Maya Leanne Johns; Oakley Ray Johns; Issabelle Josephine Johnson; Presley Samuel Johnson[*]; Gabriel Michael Jones; Gavin Christopher Jones; Samantha Dorothy Jones; Ryker Paul Jones; Brayden Matthew Kathcart; Summer Rose Kazmierczak; Brooklynn Marie Kearney; Jacob Patrick Kearney; Landon Kell; Karson Adam Kennedy; Surina Kennedy; Daiten Dashai-Cissell Kennon; Nolan Andrew Kennon; Ethan Michael Kerr=; Genie Michelle Ketcherside; Rocky Wayne Killian; Karmen Maree Kimbrough(c); Haili Marie King; Lorelai Jordyn Kistler; Dustyn Lee Kjensmo; Caiden Alexander Klima; Sage Marie Kofron; Savannah Kay Kofron; Keaden Matthew Robert Lampe; Brenna Laramore
Robert Joseph Larbalestrier; Aerial Marie Larson; Shania Andrea Leach=; Isaac David Leask; Carter Paul Lincoln
Ian William Link; Trinity Rose Little; Amber Rose Littrell; Grace Anna Jo Lively *; Bryson Carter Logan
Daphanee Paige Lueck; Dakota Elaine Lynn; Ian Joseph Mackley; Chandler Marino; Chance Michael Martin
Taylor Marie Martin; Trenten Cole Mattingly; Kaesen Tyler McClain*=; Jackson William McDowell; Michael Allen McKinney
Hayden Thomas Melton; Julia Mae Metcalf; Christopher Joseph Miller; Lillian Ashton Miller *=; Madison Michele Mills
Christian Lee Monrotus; Chloe Jane Moon*; Addison Marie Moore *; Layla Dee Moore; Waylon Moore; Alayna Grace Moran
Zeke Moreland; Kaydence Mackenzie Moss; Grace Ann Mueller; Allison Renee Muse; Arianna Grace Nash; Kristen Ella Nickelson; Kyle Edward Nickelson[*]; Alexander Tobias Noll; Ava Michelle Obenauer*=; Taylor Martin Ogden; Summer Michelle O’Harver=; Christina Skye Peppers; Kylie Raeann Pigg; Brennan Kenneth Platten; Aiden Charles Pogue
Collin Anthony Polus; Kylee Nicole Pratt; Landyn Paige Pratt*; Travis Pratt; Alaina Kathryn Pulliam*
Ryelynne Faye Pultz; Ricki Charlise Pyatt; Dylan Edwin Quinlin; Willow Elizabeth Raggo; Jerzee Faith Rakers
Christian Rastorfer; Parker Elmer Rawson[*]; Briana Nicole Rayfield; Ayden Tyler Reams; Aiden Micheal Redmond; Sarah Nichole Reever*; Gracie Taylor Kay Reid; Carson James Rhodes; Connor Drake Rice; Asher Addison Rique; Elly Diane Robbins*; William David Rodgers; Addison Caroline Roney; Rainee Lain Roper; Cannon William Roth; Amirah Elyse Rowland; Andrew Jacob Russell; Hayden Matthew San Soucie; Savannah Olivia Sanchez; Clare McFerron Sandweg; Helena Sansoucie; Isaac Matthew Sawtelle; Bradley James Schaefer; Logan Schaupert; Cole Martin Schrage; Landon Eastyn Lane Scott; Wyatt Thomas Scott*=; Zachary Leo Scowden; Wyatt Leo Seyfert; Alyssa Michelle Sherman; Zackary Tyler Shoemaker; Kaleb Samuel Short; Morgan Renee Short; Brenton Chance Sikes; Trintine Lee Slevin
Abigail Jane Sloan; Savannah Eve Sluder; Athena Kaylee Smith; Brady Rhay Smith; Isaac Lawrence Smith; Jonathan Thomas Smith; Skyla Michelle Smith; Timothy Lee Smith; Tori Nicole Smith; Kille Paige Soegaard-Freeman; Lillian Jane Staat *; Lisa Ann Stagg; Meika Lyn Stienkemeyer *=; Halie Nicole Storrjohann*[*]; Grayson Tanner Roth Street *; Devin Lee Stricklin; Cheyenne Renee Strohkirch; Bradley Sturdivant; Sean Patrick Sullivan; Carter Joseph Sutton; Dillon Sutton; Landon Joseph Swink; Owen Wesley Swink; Josie Swyers; Bradley Dale Talley; Kaitlyn Elaine Tavlor; David Eugene Tesreau III; Bryar Autumn Thomas; Isabella Tovar; Walker Jarvis Trokey; Mason Tucker; Emily Jean Turner =; Tyler Jeffrey Umfleet; Ryder Destin Vanstavern; Amelia Anne-Marie Varvil; Baylor Reed Vaugh*=; Brendan Mikel Ventimiglia; Edward Blaine Volner; Hayden Lee Wade; Jessica Wade *; Nicholas W Wakefield; Kinley Addison Walden*=; Brayden Michael Wallis; Ryan Dean Wampler; Gunnar Ross Ward*=; Braxtin Wesley Watkins; Sophie Marie Watkins; Bella Marie White; Megan Ranae Whitehead; Allison Leann Whitmore; Krystabelle Victoria Wiles; Deven Joseph Williams; Haley Kaku Williams; Meredith Williams*=; Michael Dale Williams *; Genevieve Grace Willmann; Gabriella Elizabeth Wilson; Kollin John Winch; Emiley Dawn Winebarger; Jacob John Wiseman; Zane Allen Wood; Colton Workes; Madison Workes; Rylyn Blaine Wurst; Victoria Grace Yates; Elizabeth Ann Yeager * =; Sophie Azra Yilmaz*; Gracie Renee Ziegelmeyer; Ian Richard Zohner

Lisa Brotherton-Barnes is a Daily Journal and Farmington Press staff writer. She can be reached at lbarnes@dailyjournalonline.com.