Round Lake Area Schools presented diplomas to graduates of Round Lake High School’s Class of 2025 at a commencement ceremony at the school stadium.

Principal Bridal Peterson opened the ceremony, introducing speakers and performers and asking the audience to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. Dr. Don Mendoza, superintendent of Round Lake Area Schools, told graduates that resilience and optimism matter as they move on from high school, saying, “Happiness is not what happens after you achieve your goals. It's what helps you actually achieve them.”

Student speakers reflected on perseverance and community. Jocelyn Mata, introduced by district staff, told classmates that though high school felt short, “it was worth it.” Senior class speaker Zeltzin Zepeda Solis described a white stole signed by parents, staff and others as a token of the class’s gratitude and urged classmates to carry their family and community ties forward. A Round Lake High School choir, directed by Mr. Olson, performed during the program.

Deputy Superintendent Heather Bennett, a Round Lake High alumna, encouraged graduates to keep working hard and to build connections, saying, “Work hard in your relationships. Work hard at your job.” Following speeches and the presentation of candidates, school staff asked graduates to move their tassels from the right to the left and directed the recessional. Graduates and families were asked to remain seated until all graduates had exited the stadium and to reunite at the tennis courts; shuttle buses were directed to previous drop-off locations.

The ceremony included the formal presentation of names as diplomas were conferred; a roll of graduates’ names was read by school staff during the diploma presentation. Specific counts of graduates were not specified in the transcript.