The Mount Mansfield Unified Union School District held its 48th Commencement Ceremony on June 14, 2025, celebrating the achievements of the graduating class of 2025. The event featured heartfelt speeches from student speakers, reflecting on their shared experiences and growth throughout high school.

The first speaker, Gus, addressed his classmates with a poignant metaphor, comparing their journey to a forest. He emphasized the diverse backgrounds of the students while highlighting their common roots in the Vermont community. Gus recounted the emotional roller coaster of high school, from the stress of essays and exams to the joy of shared victories, such as winning the winter carnival. He encouraged his peers to remember their interconnectedness as they embark on different paths, stating, “No matter how far our branches spread, we are still connected by the same roots.”

Following Gus, Indira Bush took the podium, reminiscing about the transformation from their freshman year to graduation. She recalled a teacher's remark about their initial struggles with school, which resonated with the class's journey through the challenges of the pandemic and the transition back to in-person learning. Indira celebrated the resilience of her classmates, noting their evolution into future leaders and professionals across various fields. She expressed gratitude for the community they built together, stating, “We formed a community that I feel so lucky to have been a part of.”

The ceremony underscored the significance of shared experiences and the bonds formed during high school, as students prepared to step into new chapters of their lives. The event concluded with a sense of pride and optimism for the future, as the class of 2025 celebrated their accomplishments and the memories they created together.