The 112th annual Goodhue graduation commencement ceremony took place in the high school gymnasium at 6:30 pm Friday, May 30th. 58 graduates crossed the stage to receive their diplomas with nearly half recognized as honor students. Superintendent Dr. Evan Gough welcomed the crowd, telling the graduates that the community will always support them. The high school choir sang “For Good” by Mac Huff, a fitting song for graduation with lyrics that include, “I am who I am today because I knew you…who can say if I’ve been changed for the better but because I knew you, I have been changed for good.”
Allison Rothmeier offered words on behalf of the school staff. Rothmeier became emotional as she spoke to the students that were 7th graders when she became a counselor in Goodhue. Her words of advice were to grab a snack and work out their problems because “chicken strips are always the answer”.
Responding for the class were Kendyl Lodermeier and Caden Lodermeier who said it was an honor “to proudly represent our class on this beautiful night”. The duo went on to share a few humorous memories from grade school, to middle school (which Kendly looks back on as “optional”), to more recent antics and achievements. They thanked the community, staff members, Principal Rehder, family and friends, and closed by calling the Class of 2025 “the greatest grade of all time”.
Following the distribution of diplomas, several members of the class shot off confetti cannons, sending paper slips into the air overhead. The annual car parade followed the ceremony before students returned to the school for the Senior party. This year’s theme was “Wildcat County Fair” with prizes awarded for the best costume.
Thanks to a spring raffle and other fundraisers, classmates enjoyed snacks, beverages and games until about 2:30 am. Divided into groups, the teens participated in laser tag, bean bags, chicken poop bingo and other activities. Each graduate received a basket with “GHS” embroidered towels and other favors, small and medium prizes including gift cards, headphones and Bluetooth speakers, coolers, air fryers, microwaves, pizza ovens, and more. A random drawing was held for the largest prizes including a mini-fridge and large-screen TV.
