NIOBRARA COUNTY – On May 16, Wyoming Virtual Academy (WYVA) seniors traveled to Lusk from all over the state to celebrate their final day with words from keynote speaker Governor Mark Gordon.

Fifty graduates along with their family and friends attended the ceremony at Niobrara County High School (NCHS). Afterwards, a free dinner was held at the Niobrara County Fairgrounds. Several of the WYVA teachers and staff traveled to Lusk to help with the graduation.

Among the attendees were three seniors who had been attending the school since the first grade. There were 16 seniors who graduated earlier last December. Four graduates plan to enter the Army, Navy and Air Force. 14 graduates plan to enter the workforce. The rest will be seeking a higher education.

Three seniors were honored as salutatorian. The recipients were Jennifer Rooney, Angelita Masais, and Zoey Woeber. Unfortunately, Valedictorian Rachel Hedum was unable to attend the ceremony.

WYVA director Dr. Joe Haywood welcomed all the attendees. Haywood thanked all of the guests, Governor Gordon, state education representatives, NCSD #1 superintendent Dan Schmidt and school board members. Haywood also thanked all of the WYVA teachers for helping with the ceremony.

“We had 68 graduates this year,” said Haywood. “These 68 graduates represent 30 state counties and towns. All of the counties except one are represented here today.”

Prior to a slide show of the seniors, Haywood gave a brief synopsis of what the students would be doing in their futures.

“I am so grateful to have the opportunity to work with these students, teachers and everybody,” said Haywood. “31 of these students worked a job while receiving their education. Three have been with us since the first grade. 16 took the initiative and worked hard to graduate early. 50 will attend college or seek a higher education and four are going into the armed forces. We’re grateful for their sacrifices.”

Tiana Copeland, the daughter of WYVA principal Jenifer Copeland, introduced Governor Gordon.

“Congratulation on your honors,” said Gordon. “Wyoming has this unique ability to create people with character and strength. We have talents and visions, which we call the code of the west. Have courage. Live each day with courage. Take pride in your work. Finish what you started. Do what needs to be done. Be tough and fair. Keep your promises. Talk less and say more. Remember, somethings are just not for sale. Know where to draw the line.”

WYVA teacher Selena Pope praised the seniors. 

“My hope today is that you graduates decide to make the most of every moment,” said Pope. “And graduates we are so proud of you.”

Other speakers at the ceremony included NCSC #1 Superintendent Dan Schmidt, WYVA principal Jennifer Copeland and her daughter, salutatorian Tiana Copeland. The ceremony ended with diplomas and congratulations from family, friends, and faculty.

Wyoming Virtual Academy (WYVA) is a full-time, tuition-free online public school serving students in grades K-12 throughout Wyoming. As a program of Niobrara County School District #1, WYVA combines a proven online curriculum with state-certified teachers to offer a personalized, high-quality education. This flexible and innovative approach is powered by K12, a Stride, Inc. portfolio brand, and the nation’s leading provider of online education programs for 25 years. Learn more at wyva.k12.com.