‘97 Graduation Valley High School Seniors In Class Of ‘97 On Threshold Of Career Tracks, Adulthood

As the Spokane Valley’s high school seniors don caps and gowns to accept their diplomas this month, many will reflect on this special moment in their lives.

They will think of parents, friends, teachers and others who have played important roles in their formal education and in the many other ways they have learned about life.

They will also think eagerly of what the future holds: college, jobs, travel, first apartments, new friends and families of their own.

As they ponder this milestone - and start saying goodbye to old friends and preparing for new places, people and experiences, perhaps they realize that life will never be quite the same.

Today’s special edition of the Valley Voice is devoted to the Class of 1997. Inside, you’ll find:

A celebration of the valedictorians, who have sweated out straight A’s and are finishing high school at the top of their respective classes.

Thoughtful essays about the high school experience by four graduating seniors.

The stories of some successful students whose post-graduation plans don’t include four years of college - at least for now.

A look at how an early start in the hunt for scholarship money can help ease the sting of soaring college costs.

The story of a 18-year-old academic achiever who will receive both a high school diploma and a community college degree this month and who will enter college as a junior this fall.

A profile of a young mother’s struggle to graduate with honors.

A profile of a young athlete who get his life back on track after overcoming a deep personal loss.

A look back at an exceptionally eventful year for the Valley’s high school sports teams.

Information about commencement ceremonies - and, of course, the name of every student graduating this year from a Spokane Valley high school.

, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color Photo