Parades, Videos, And More To Honor 2020 Graduates

The graduation and promotion processes may have looked different, but the excitement and pride felt by this community over the Class of 2020 was not diminished in the slightest. The community honored them with parades, videos and many other socially-distanced celebrations. Pick up this week’s issue to read more about all the excitement around the community.

Over $62,000 Presented At OHS Graduation Sunday

Lindsey Averbeck and Megan Cook were honored as the Co-Valedictorians at the Okawville High virtual graduation Sunday afternoon. Bailee Beck and Megan Schleifer were named Co-Salutatorians.

They were among the graduates who received a total of over $62,000 in scholarships presented at graduation. They also received scholarships from the universities they will attend.

Averbeck, the daughter of Leon and Brenda Averbeck of Lively Grove, will study Actuary Science at Maryville University. Cook, the daughter of Tim and Cathy Cook of Okawville, will major in Chemical Engineering at Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla.

Schleifer, the daughter of Jason and Tricia Schleifer of Okawville, will study Nursing at Missouri State University in Springfield. Beck, the daughter of Craig and Renee Beck of Coulterville,  will major in Pre-Veterinary Science at Murray State University in Kentucky.

The co-valedictorians and co-salutatorions represented to 10 percent of the class with 34 students. Averbeck and Cook were also Illinois State Scholars.

The four gave valedictorian and salutatorian addresses.

Welcomes to the virtual graduation were delivered by Principal Keith Senior and Senior Class President Averbeck.