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After the inspiring speeches and words of encouragement, 23 students from Unalaska took off their hats and tossed them sky-high, an age-old tradition to celebrate their graduation from high school and the beginning of the next chapter in their lives.
The Unalaska City School District graduates were honored May 18 in the high school big gym. Students gave speeches, distributed roses and received diplomas. Jolen Mangyao graduated valedictorian and Luois Amora graduated salutatorian.
Graduates also participated in a celebratory parade on Thursday. Students piled into decorated cars, trucks and trailers and made a tour around the island as proud community members turned out to applaud their accomplishments.
Many of the students are headed to universities and colleges around Alaska and the United States, while others plan to enter the trades. The class collectively earned around $175,000 in scholarships.