On September 20, Strathmore High School will be celebrating the achievements of three of its graduates. Called the ‘Pillars of Strathmore High School,’ the event will recognize Blair Barlow, Jackie Thurston and Dale Mercer.
“We are inducting three former graduates,” said Principal Kyle Larson, who explained that the ceremony will take place in the school’s theatre at 4 p.m.
Just east of the main entrance inside Strathmore High School, pillars line the halls. On each one sits a plaque with a photo and information on former graduates who have had a significant impact on their communities since leaving school.
“They just explain what these people have done since they graduated from high school and the accolades that they have accomplished,” he said.
“This is a program that we’ve used to recognize former graduates that have gone on to be leaders and pillars in their own communities and who have contributed significantly,” said Larson. He noted that those who are chosen have had a very positive impact on the community where they currently reside.
“They are people that we want to recognize and be proud of as former graduates from Strathmore High School,” he said.
Each recipient receives a personalized plaque, but the school also retains a plaque.
“We want to recognize and begin to tell the story of our graduates and some of the things they have accomplished,” said Larson.
The plaques also serve as a source of inspiration for current students.
“The recipients that we have been selecting are from a variety of backgrounds. It’s an opportunity for kids to make a connection to something we maybe wouldn’t have thought the kids would make a connection to,” said the principal, who explained that the plaques are something tangible students can see on a daily basis and aspire to.