Learn from the past, and challenge the future. This was the message that both Casey Franklin and Lyle Janicek presented to their fellow seniors at the annual Commencement Exercise at Kimball Junior Senior High School on Saturday, May 15.

Both Franklin and Janicek were Valedictorians of the graduating class.

“Don’t be afraid to look back to help you find the answers,” Franklin said to his classmates.

While offering words of encouragement, Franklin took the opportunity to thank the community, friends and family, and faculty and staff that has supported the senior class through all their endeavors.

“Without your support what we achieved wouldn’t have been possible,” Franklin said.

Franklin further thanked the faculty and staff for the knowledge and guidance they have gained from them.

His biggest offering of thanks though was dedicated to the parents of the senior class. Franklin said that although it may appear that they (students) weren’t always listening, “we do take in the lessons you have taught us.”

Franklin added to his speech by listing some of the achievements and accolades this class has earned.

“I am proud to stand before you, representing this senior class,” he said.

After offering more words of encouragement to his classmates on their journeys ahead, Franklin took a minute to remind then to never forget where they come from.

“We will never forget the Longhorn spirit,” he said.

Following Franklin was fellow valedictorian Lyle Janicek.

“All good things come to an end,” Janicek said.

Although cross country came to an end and that wasn’t a bad thing, he joked.

But one ability, or a good thing, that will not come to an end is the ability to learn, he said.

Like Franklin, Janicek also offered words of encouragement to his fellow classmates.

“To reach great success, we must work together,” he said.

He added to that by saying obstacles can be overcome by working together.

“In life there will be plenty of obstacles,” he said.

But you must face those obstacles, he said.

“Life is too short not to take risks,” Janicek said.

You must challenge yourself to try something new. By trying something new you are overcoming obstacles, he said.

“Life is there for you to enjoy it,” Janicek said.

Janicek also took the time to thank those who have guided this senior class. He thanked his classmates for their support as well.

“Without each other we would not be the class of 2010,” Janicek said.

His biggest thanks were directed at the families.

“They raised us, watched over us, and will always be there to stick up for us,” he said.

To the incoming senior class he threw out a bit of advice. He told them to take advantage of the opportunity they have of the wonderful Kimball community.

To end his speech, Janicek offered more words of encouragement to his fellow seniors.

“Don’t stop believing,” he said, “You are the one who is responsible for the decision you make in your life.”