By Ben Rowley
June 05, 2012

Pahranagat Valley High School’s Class of 2012 is a small group that accomplished big things.

During the graduation?ceremony?held at the PVHS Gymnasium on June 1st, speakers’ reflected on past accomplishments, trials, and the friendships these 17 diploma recipients have forged. ?Thoughts also turned to the future as the graduates prepare to go their separate ways and tackle the next phase of their lives.

Hanging above the graduates was a sign reading “Got R Done” – a slogan that fits this group, which has?emanated?determination and perseverance through the years. ?From bringing home state academic awards, to never losing a football game over four years; from placing PVHS in the record books for having the most state championships in the state of Nevada, to simply never giving up to the very end to get that diploma – no matter the odds or the cost – these seniors got it done.

One chair on the stand was without a person but certainly wasn’t empty. ?It was the seat of classmate Garrett Riley Canning, who died in a tragic automobile accident earlier in the year. ?A picture of Garrett was carefully placed on the seat, along with his cap and gown. ?Thoughtful tributes were given, as classmates reflected on how much they love and miss him and as his posthumous diploma was presented.

Through the years, particularly this year, the high character of this group has shown, and they appear ready for the next step.

“[High school] has been a time for us to learn strengths, weaknesses, talents and passions,” said Valedictorian Halie Lewis during her address. ?”We are ready to journey out into the real world and accomplish our goals.”