Fraser students step toward the future
By: Nick Powers | Fraser-Clinton Chronicle | Published June 5, 2024
FRASER — The Fraser Class of 2024 made its way through the hallways of the high school to an upbeat soundtrack from the marching band on May 24.
As they walked, the students were flanked by underclassmen and teachers who wished them well on the next part of their journey.
Prior to the senior walk, students signed T-shirts and a banner for the graduating class. This was followed by speeches and presentations in the auditorium. Around 2 p.m., the seniors walked the halls for one last time. They then made their way onto the football field to their waiting families and well-wishers. This was topped off with an ice cream social.
Fraser principal Ryan Sines said the 2024 class stood out because of their adaptability and resilience. He said the students had to navigate through the challenges of school during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This group showed perseverance and creativity in overcoming that adversity,” Sines said. “Whether it be in their academic ventures, their athletic triumphs or even performing arts, they all did things differently based on the atmosphere they were faced with.”
Noah Tonn, the class valedictorian, sports the highest GPA in the school’s history at 4.365. Jason Valade is the class salutatorian, whom Sines described as “extremely talented and bright.” Performing Arts Students of the Year include Mitch Nummer (vocal) and Declan Johnston (instrumental).
“We’re hitting performing arts, we’re hitting academics, we’re hitting athletics and those are great representatives of our school,” Sines said.
Student Athletes of the Year are Claire Wise and Tyler Donovan. Fifteen girls and boys from the track and field teams will compete in the Division 1 state finals at East Kentwood High School on June 1.
Sines said 360 seniors are in the graduating class.
“We have a lot of students who are committed to go to postsecondary (education), students who are going into the military, students who are going into careers. We’re excited for all of them,” he said.