Under a bright May sky and a refreshing morning breeze, families and friends gathered at Trojan Field on Saturday, May 24, to celebrate the Lamar County High School Class of 2025. This year’s class included 171 graduates—27 distinguished honor graduates and 20 honor graduates. The newly expanded seating at the stadium comfortably accommodated proud loved ones.
The ceremony began with the Presentation of Colors, led by the Lamar County High School Army JROTC Color Guard. The cadets marched across the field, carrying the flags of our nation and state with precision and pride. Prior to the posting of the colors, Kaitlin Neal led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stunning rendition of the Star Spangled Banner, performed by members of the LCHS Chorus.
Senior class president Asya Mathis warmly welcomed the audience to the ceremony, making a point that this time together marks the end of high school and the beginning of something “bold and new.”
Addison “Kaney” Bryan took to the platform to highlight the class’s accomplishments. She noted that several students earned college credit through dual enrollment opportunities and gained occupational experience through the work-based learning program. Bryan also emphasized that 27 graduates maintained a GPA of 3.75 or higher, with an additional 47 earning a GPA of 3.5 or above. Many graduates are eligible for the HOPE Scholarship, and five members of the class have enlisted in the U.S. military. In addition to academic and career-enhancing accomplishments, the Class of 2025 earned honors in several extracurricular programs with the school, including state championships, region titles, and playoff appearances.
Salutatorian Justin “Reese” Goddard encouraged his classmates to look back and reflect on their times together. He emphasized that the most important things in high school were not grades, but their experiences together. Goddard also spoke personally about how he has been inspired by his faith. “God is my anchor,” he stated. To conclude, he exhorted his classmates to find their worth in their “attempts to be better.”
Valedictorian Carter McDaniel spoke on overcoming challenges in his life, especially processing and working through his mother’s battle with breast cancer. “Adversity has a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect it,” he declared, but affirmed that we are prepared for life because of our struggles.
Chairman Ron Smith spoke on behalf of the Board of Education, followed by words of wisdom from Principal Jake Harris. “Nothing will work unless you do,” said Harris, urging the graduates to keep a responsible mindset throughout adulthood.
Closing remarks were delivered by the class vice president, Charlissia Head.
Before leaving the field, the graduates gathered in the north end zone to toss their caps high into the sky, celebrating their accomplishments and anticipating what is to come.
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
