South Tama County graduated their 2021 Senior Class Sunday, May 23 inside the STC Gym. Students exited the gym following commencement ceremonies to Post Malone’s Congratulations. Tylese Rosenberger threw her arms in the air as she walked out of the gym. Allison Graham/News Chronicle

South Tama held Graduation Sunday, May 23 in the STC High School Gym.

Seniors entered the gymnasium to “Pomp and Circumstance.”

STC Principal Mark Groteluschen introduced special guests, gave a welcome and introduced speakers.

Hope Werner and Sydney Parizek were the class speakers. Werner earned Valedictorian while Parizek was Salutatorian.

High School teacher Emily Chyma gave a speech on behalf of the high school staff.

Sydney Parizek was awarded Salutatorian of the Class of 2021. She shook hands with STC Principal Mark Groteluschen while Assistant Principal and Activities Director Anthony Jahr gave Parizek her medal.

Dixie Forcht announced the graduates.

Students exited the gym to the song “Congratulations” by Post Malone.

The 2021 class motto was “Class of 2021, we’re just built differently.” Class colors were columbia blue and black and the class flower was the white mum.

STC senior Hope Werner was selected as Valedictorian of the Class of 2021. She is pictured giving a speech during Commencement Sunday, May 23. Allison Graham/News Chronicle

STC high school seniors entered the STC High School gym to Pomp and Circumstance Sunday, May 23. More photos on page 10

The Moran family including Tyler, Andy, Ellen and Taylor took the opportunity for a family photo. Both Andy and Ellen work for South Tama and presented their sons with their diplomas Sunday, May 23 at Graduation. Allison Graham/News Chronicle

STC staff and school board members were present for Graduation Sunday, May 23. From (l-r) is Superintendent Jared Smith, school board members Ron Houghton and Mandy Lekin, Elementary Representative Amy Parizek, Middle School Representative Crystal Hass, High School Representative and Faculty Speaker Emily Chyma, Graduation organizer Dixie Forcht, Assistant Principal and Activities Director Anthony Jahr and Principal Mark Groteluschen. Allison Graham/News Chronicle

STC senior Mickey Wanatee gets a hug following Graduation ceremonies Sunday, May 23 at South Tama County High School Allison Graham/News Chronicle

Decorating caps is a new way to show celebration and individuality at graduation. One seniors caps was decorated with a sloth at Graduation Sunday, May 23. Allison Graham/News Chronicle

An STC staff member and mom of a senior Nadia Jimenez hugs son Sonny following Commencement Sunday, May 23. Allison Graham/News Chronicle