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New Hope High School honors Class of 2025; two graduates enlist in Alabama Air National Guard, two staffers retire
Summary
New Hope High School held a commencement ceremony recognizing the Class of 2025, during which two graduates announced enlistment in the Alabama Air National Guard and the school honored two retiring staff members; district leaders and local officials attended.
New Hope High School held a commencement ceremony for the Class of 2025 in New Hope, Ala., where students, school leaders and local officials gathered to recognize graduates, announced two enlistments in the Alabama Air National Guard and honor two retiring staff members.
The ceremony featured student speakers, district officials and local elected leaders from Madison County Schools. Olivia Conville, senior class vice president and National Honor Society technical adviser, opened the program by welcoming attendees: "Good evening, everyone. Again, my name is Olivia and I would like to welcome each of you to the New Hope High School graduation for the class of 2025." Principal David Manning, joined by assistant principals and other administrators, addressed the graduates and thanked faculty and community partners.
The graduating class included students choosing a variety of post‑graduation paths. Thomas Daniel Fuell told the audience that he and a classmate had enlisted in the Alabama Air National Guard and asked the crowd to recognize military service: "We warmly welcome you and ask you to please rise so we can honor you with applause and appreciation that you deserve." The program also noted that William Joseph Fuell is pursuing a similar path.
The school paused to recognize two longtime staff members who are retiring. The ceremony paid tribute to Shannon Franks for her classroom service and to Chad Bolton for 29 years at New Hope, including coaching duties; student speakers described both as steady, reliable presences who made lasting impacts on students.
Principal David Manning thanked the community and staff and said the school will continue work on facilities: "Disclaimer, the parking lot will be repaired this summer thanks to our Board of Education." He also expressed pride in the students: "I could not be more proud of our students and faculty and the talents that are on display tonight."
District and local officials listed on the program included Madison County Schools Superintendent Ken Kubik; chief of staff Daniel Evans; Chief Financial Officer Karen O'Bannon; Assistant Superintendent of Student Support Services Mark Minsky; Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Carrie Bass; director of special education Mary Stump; director of equity and innovation Marcia McCants; director of public relations Carter Watkins; coordinator of secondary instruction Jennifer Fanning; Madison County Schools District 3 representative and board president Bridal Brooks; Commissioner Craig Hill; Representative Richie Horton; Owen's Crossroads Mayor Tony Craig; and New Hope Mayor Roger Walling.
The ceremony included musical performances and the traditional turning of the tassel; speakers repeatedly thanked parents, faculty and community members for their support. The program recorded the names of graduates and invited the crowd to honor veterans and active military in attendance.
No formal actions, votes or policy changes were proposed or adopted during the event; it was a commencement ceremony and recognition program.
