Principal John Andrews honors Desert Mountain's class of 2025 at graduation ceremony

The graduation ceremony for Desert Mountain High School's Class of 2025 marked a significant milestone, celebrating not only the achievements of the students but also the school's 30th anniversary. Principal John Andrews addressed the graduates, highlighting their hard work and dedication throughout their high school years.

In his speech, Andrews commended the Class of 2025 for their exceptional accomplishments, noting that 23 students were recognized as National Merit finalists or Commended Scholars, the highest number in the Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD). Additionally, nine students earned the title of AP Scholars with distinction, while 67 graduates received the Global Seal of Biliteracy, showcasing their linguistic proficiency.

The principal also celebrated the athletic achievements of the class, mentioning that the boys' swim and dive team won the state championship, alongside the girls' tennis and softball teams, which secured their titles for three consecutive years. The school's football team reached the top eight in the state for the second year in a row, further emphasizing the students' competitive spirit and teamwork.

Moreover, Andrews highlighted the academic pursuits of the graduates, with several students set to attend prestigious universities such as Duke, Yale, and the University of Chicago. Notably, three students received full scholarships to Arizona State University through the Next Generation Service Corps, and others excelled in engineering competitions, showcasing the diverse talents within the class.

As the ceremony concluded, Andrews reflected on the shared experiences that defined the graduates' time at Desert Mountain, reminding them that their legacy of excellence would continue to inspire future students. The event not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the strong community spirit that has characterized Desert Mountain High School for three decades.