Nearly 200 graduates were celebrated and received diplomas at Hopkinsville High School’s commencement ceremony on Friday at the Stadium of Champions.
Before students received their diplomas, they were spotlighted for their academic achievements and received some words of wisdom from commencement speaker and Cumberland Hall Teacher Kim Batts. The top 10 students were spotlighted and HHS Assistant Principal Sarah Addison recognized Rebecca Leigh Wood as the valedictorian and Alyssa Dean Meyer as the salutatorian.
Batts is a graduate of Christian County High School and has worked in the school system for 34 years. Along with being a teacher, Batts also sponsors multiple student organizations and initiatives including leadership programs, service clubs and faith-based groups.
Batts says she has had the privilege of working with many students from the graduating class and has witnessed their growth firsthand.
As graduates prepare for the next chapter, Batts gave them five pieces of advice. She told them to control what they can, step outside of their comfort zone, be a lifelong learner, dream big and stay rooted in their faith.
To conclude her speech, Batts told graduates that they are stepping into a world that needs their voice, heart and energy.
Following Batts’ speech, students were presented with their diplomas and Superintendent Chris Bentzel announced the class of 2025 as graduates. Graduates moved their tassels from the right side of their cap to the left side to signify the competition of their high school education.