For the final time, they stood together as students – 176 strong – in black and gold caps and gowns beneath the lights of the Tiger gymnasium.Excelsior Springs High School’s (ESHS) Class of 2025 gathered to celebrate the end of one chapter and the hopeful beginning of another. The ceremony was filled with pride, gratitude and powerful reflections that honored a class defined by resilience, unity and growth.Led by the Excelsior Springs Symphonic Band, the processional began with “Pomp and Circumstance,” arranged by Clare Grundman. The Springs Singers followed with a rendition of the “Star-Spangled Banner,” arranged by Mac Huff.Principal Dr. Sara Wickham welcomed the crowd and addressed the graduates, acknowledging both the bittersweet nature of leaving high school and the excitement of what lies ahead.“Today, you sit before me in your caps and gowns with proud smiles and ready for your next...