They're graduates now!

Published by admin on Tue, 05/13/2025 - 3:50pm

KINDER, KENT AND KENNELL—Coaler graduates [from left]: Melody Kinder, Owen Kent and Kylee Kennell joined together for a photo prior to Sunday’s graduation ceremony. The three graduates all earned recognition as Acclaimed Coalers for their work in the classroom, participation in school activities and community service.

Courtesy photo
AS PRESIDENT OF the senior class Will Johnke had the honor of addressing his fellow classmates and all in attendance at Sunday’s Commencement Ceremony for the Coal City High School class of 2025. Will will be among the 47 percent of graduates continuing their education at a four year university and his choice is the University of Illinois to major in sports management. An additional 28 percent of the class will attend junior college, 15 percent will head directly into the workforce, nine percent will be enrolling in a trade or technical school and one student has enlisted in the military.

Coal City High School principal Art Stafford opened the Commencement Ceremony for the class of 2025 with this message, “Today is a day of celebration, a day to recognize the effort, determination, and growth that have brought us to this moment.”
The Sunday ceremony served to recognize the many accomplishments of the 133 graduates.
“As you stand on the threshold of your future, take time to remember what got you here today. The late nights spent studying, the early mornings at practice, the long hours dedicated to perfecting your craft, whether in academics, athletics, music, theatre, or any other number of your passions. Hard work helped get you here today, but will shape your success moving forward,” Stafford said.
Sunday’s ceremony also served to recognize the students who achieved academic success and finish high school among the top 10 percent including Anthony Aultz, Corinna Barkley, August Burns, Riley Clements, Mackenzie Croxton, Lilly Feisley, Peyton Gibson, Will Johnke, Melody Kinder, Deborah Lynch, Owen Quarles, Trevor Perino, Shaun Polarekt and Hunter Nettles.
The graduates were addressed by class officers—Will Johnke, Lucas Pfizenmaier and Dylan Young. Madison Wilson was selected to give the class address and Superintendent Chris Spencer also addressed the seniors.
As the graduates leave Coal City High School, 28 percent plan to continue their education at a four- year college or university, 28 percent will enroll at a junior college and nine percent are looking to perfect their skills at a trade or technical school.
According to Stafford, 15 percent of the graduates are headed directly into the workforce and one student—Elijah Moore—has chosen to enter the military and is currently enlisted and on duty with the United States Marine Corps.
“Class of 2025, as you head in different directions to find success in a variety of different realms. I have no doubts you will continue to make Coal City proud,” the principal said.

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