The Grand Meadow High School dome hosted its first graduation Friday night with 27 students receiving diplomas.

"We're the last ones in the old school, and the first ones to break in the new school," class president Misty Guy said as she welcomed family and friends to the event.

Superintendent Bruce Klaehn said the class of 2003 made the transition a smooth one.

"You showed the class and respect that both buildings deserved, and set an example throughout the year," he said.

He talked of the resiliency of the seniors and challenged them to continue to work hard as they move on in life. Discipline, he said, is still important.

"That does not come to an end tonight," he said. "In fact, it becomes more difficult to be a disciplined person."

The freedom they now have, he said, comes with a responsibility to continue their efforts in life.

Valedictorian Stacy Baldus reiterated the message to her classmates.

"High school was tough, and moving on will be difficult," she said. "But if you work hard, be true to yourself and have a sense of humor, you'll succeed."

Music teacher Janet Moe was the commencement speaker for the evening. She told students the story of her grandmother's hardships growing up in an orphanage and later losing two of her children on the farm. She said challenges come in life; some are chosen, and some are forced on us. But during those times, a person's character comes through.

Stars, she said, can not be seen in daylight.

"Like stars, sometimes our character only shines through in dark times," she said.

Moe told the class of 2003 that whatever their accomplishments have been and will be, they will be successful as long as they value character.

"It is not so important what you do as how you do it, who you become," she said.

Matt Merritt can be reached at 434-2214 or by e-mail at :mailto:matt.merritt@austindailyherald.com