Graduates hear...the beard is magic.

By SARAH JENKINS

BONNERS FERRY--Saturday, June 4, 2016 was the beginning of a new journey for the BFHS Class of 2016. Attendance was extraordinary, and the graduates and those in attendances could not have wished for a more beautiful day to hear the profound messages from their guest speakers. Even though the heat was elevated, the words of wisdom from the guest speakers, created many goose bumps.

Principal Tim Gering addressed the Class of 2016 for the final time. He recounted that this time of year everyone loves to speak in quotes. Gering stated, "guard your heart and your character," then he announced the next Guest speaker and newly announced BFHS Principal, Kevin Dinning. Dinning is no stranger to this class; he had stood before them four years ago at their 8th grade graduation. Dinning reminded the graduates, "that if it's important enough to say, say it, don't text it." Dinning also challenged them to earn the holes in their jeans, not purchase them.

Guest speaker and senior class advisor Josh Knaggs began reliving  the story of how Lauren Wages, senior class President had asked him when the Class of 2016 was in 6th grade to be their advisor; and reminding him their freshman year of his promise. As freshman, the Class of 2016 had asked Knaggs to grow his beard out and they could vote on how the beard would depart. It became a teaching tool, a way of self expression. He has dyed it every color of the rainbow, countless teachable moments with it, and it has held one hundred and seventy-two pencils in its maze of fascination.

During his speech, Knaggs spoke about change and how since making this deal he has become quite attached to his beard. On the topic of change, Knaggs stated, "however it comes, there is no avoiding this phenomenon, the only choice you have in the matter is how you will grow from the inevitable shift in your comfort levels with life...you must adapt to survive..." Knaggs then continued to follow through with his promise and shave off the other side of his braid. At the end of his speech, the Class of 2016 cheered as the newly shaven dedicated teacher held up his commitment. Knaggs gave the Class of 2016 one final lesson-look for the silver lining, stay positive, have a sense of humor and embrace change. 

The successful Class of 2016 had six Valedictorians, each contributing to the ceremony. During one speech, Valedictorians Tanner Liermann and Kerstin Oxford stated, "we wish each and every one of you the best in life. The world doesn't owe you anything, so go out and work for the life you want to live."

Awarding of Diplomas were Superintendent, Gary Pflueger and BCSD School Board member, Ron MacDonald.

Congratulations to the BFHS Class of 2016.