A record-breaking class of 122 students meant a packed house and a pivot to the school’s gymnasium to celebrate graduation for the Marathon High School Class of 2025 on May 29.
Principal Christine Paul hailed the achievements of students she’s known since her days at Stanley Switlik Elementary – a class who collectively earned more than $2,345,000 in scholarships to fund their future endeavors.
“From academic achievement to athletic triumphs, from artistic excellence to acts of quiet kindness, you have shown time and again what it means to lead with heart and integrity,” she said.
Retiring superintendent Theresa Axford praised Marathon’s “wonderful school climate,” complimenting students for their warm and welcoming nature while achieving a class GPA of 3.29 and doubling Marathon’s scholarship total from the previous year.
“Be bold, be kind, be curious and never forget where you came from or the people who helped you,” she said.
Salutatorian David Ornelas urged the class to write their own stories in “a brand new book” of the future, never being afraid to ask for help when needed. He acknowledged a list of impactful educators from his own journey, closing by drawing a raucous round of applause from the gathered crowd as he addressed his parents directly in Spanish.
“These achievements are as much mine as they are theirs,” he said. “Their story is my foundation, and their strength will guide me in every chapter that follows.”
Valedictorian Vida Pereira likened the strength and beauty of her classmates to that of diamonds, asking them to “find other diamonds, and they will welcome you with open arms. Sometimes, the greatest treasures are found in the most unexpected places.”
“I urge each one of you to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together as a class,” added class president Gabriella Gutierrez. “Channel that energy into pursuing your passions and making a difference, not only for yourselves but for those around you.”
Photos by SEAN WESTERBAND/Keys Weekly







