Arts & Entertainment

Parry McCluer High School’s mascot, “Fighting Blues,” has never been more fitting for a graduating class than that of 2023. Working through an untraditional scholastic experience, these Blues fought hard to make the most of their high school careers.

Six students received their diplomas during Rockbridge Christian Academy’s commencement Saturday, the largest graduating class in the 30-year history of the school. Among the scenes were (clockwise from above William Dudley after receiving his diploma; Pastor Hunter Phillips, principal, handing a diploma to Ashton Henley, the co-salutatorian; valedictorian Nathaniel Clark giving his address; Ella Snow walking out with her diploma; cosalutatorian Jonathan Harper giving his address; Sacki Phillips, administrator and teacher, delivering the commencement address; the graduates switching their tassels; Pastor Phillips handing a diploma to Chloe Bahhur; and Pastor Phillips praying with the graduates. (Ethan Blevins photos)

Each year the Waddell Elementary kindergarteners, working with the Roots and Shoot Intergenerational Garden volunteers, grow sunflowers from seed and transplant them from the classroom to the school garden. Next year, as first-graders, they will harvest the flower heads, save the seeds and give them to the new kindergarteners. This month’s event featured volunteers from the Rockbridge Area Master Gardeners, Blue Ridge Garden Club and the community at large.