The Ames High School Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2025 was a heartfelt celebration of achievement and community spirit, held on May 26, 2025. The event brought together students, families, and educators to honor the graduates as they transitioned from high school to the next chapter of their lives.

AIMS Community School Board President Kelly Winfrey opened the ceremony with warm congratulations to the graduates, emphasizing the significance of this milestone. "You did it. You earned it," she said, highlighting the pride felt by the board and the community in witnessing the students' growth. Winfrey encouraged graduates to cherish their memories from high school, reminding them of the friendships and experiences that shaped their journey.

The ceremony also recognized graduates of distinction, those who achieved a cumulative grade point average of 3.8 or higher. This acknowledgment not only celebrated academic excellence but also inspired all students to strive for their best. Associate Principal Nicole Patton expressed gratitude for the contributions of the graduating class, noting how they had positively impacted Ames High School.

As the ceremony progressed, the anticipation built for the presentation of diplomas. Graduates were called to the stage, with a reminder to the audience to maintain decorum to ensure each name could be heard. This moment marked the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, as students received their diplomas and stepped into a future filled with possibilities.

The event concluded with a sense of hope and encouragement, as speakers reminded graduates that it is okay to face challenges and change plans along the way. The community's support will continue to be a source of strength as these young adults embark on their next adventures.

The Ames High School Commencement not only celebrated individual achievements but also reinforced the importance of community, resilience, and the shared journey of education. As the Class of 2025 moves forward, they carry with them the lessons learned and the memories made at Ames High, ready to take on the world.