Like butterflies emerging from their cocoons, the Biglerville High School Class of 2025 took flight Friday surrounded by family, friends and the educators who guided them along the way.
A sea of black caps and gowns marked by golden stoles and academic regalia entered the stadium two by two. Jubilant cheers lifted from the bleachers where loved ones watched the pomp and circumstance of graduation day unfold.
Some of the soon-to-be graduates wore contemplative expressions as they strode down the black track toward their seats on the green field. Others let their joy shine through their smiles and waves as their feet carried them to the place where they would transform into alumni.
Senior Class Vice President Landen Taylor kicked off the ceremony with a welcome in English and Spanish. He then summed up his classmates’ achievement in four simple words.
“Guys, we did it,” Taylor said. “Remember, just because we are graduating does not mean we will not be Canners tomorrow.”
Salutatorian Anna Walmer took a scientific approach to her remarks, comparing moments in their educational journey to data points.
“A common thread running through my data points is they are examples of people in my life who have shown me and others patience and kindness,” Walmer said. “Whether we become teachers, farmers, CEOs or janitors in the future, in any situation, there is an opportunity to show a little love to those around us and ultimately find meaning and purpose in doing so.”
Valedictorian Landon Anglin said while the graduates cannot control life’s circumstances, they can control how they respond.
Like the butterfly effect concept, he said “small changes can make big impacts.” Holding the door for a stranger could give them the courage to make a new friend, Anglin said, and choosing a college major can open a whole new world of learning.
“I suppose my advice here is just to make the best choice you can in each moment — that is enough, because we are enough,” he said. “Come on, fellow butterflies, we graduated. Let’s flap our wings and make that hurricane of change.”
As graduates leave their alma mater behind them, Principal Beth Graham encouraged them to remember the roots they planted in Biglerville, which will give the foundation they need to thrive.
Interim Superintendent Don Bell congratulated the Class of 2025 on reaching their final stepping stone and setting an example for the students who will follow in their footsteps.
School board Vice President Jim Lady invited graduates to stand and be recognized for the paths they are beginning to forge. Eighty-four of approximately 140 in the graduating class are bound for college or trade school. Forty intend to enter the workforce and eight will serve in the military.
In recognizing servicemembers, Lady noted Krystofer Lopez could not attend graduation because he had already been shipped out with the U.S. Army — or so Lady thought.
“He’s here,” a few voices called.
Lopez rose from the stands, in uniform, and grinned.
A woman sitting in the faculty and staff seating walked toward Lopez and brought him onto the field to join his classmates.
Before graduates received their diplomas, school board President Neil Weigle reminded them just how unique they are.
While eagles, tigers and bulldogs may be among the most common mascots, he said, there is only one place where you can be called a Canner.
“Being a Canner represents hard work, a toughness and a grittiness and being willing to get your hands dirty in order to get the job done,” Weigle said.
Calculating an average graduating class of 100 students per year since 1950 — around when the Biglerville mascot changed from the Rams to the Canners — Weigle estimated there are 7,500 graduates in the world who can call themselves Canners.
“You truly are in an elite company with your BHS diploma,” he said. “You can and will accomplish great things because of being from Biglerville High School. Use it to your advantage.”
Mary Grace Kauffman, freelance reporter, worked six years as a full-time reporter for newspapers in Pennsylvania and Maryland. She has covered topics including business, crime, education, government and features. Mary Grace has a bachelor's degree in communication/journalism from Shippensburg University. She resides in Adams County.