The 86 Southeast Valley High School graduates for the Class of 2024 crossed the stage in the high school gym in Gowrie in front of family, friends and loved ones.

“In just nine steps (from one side of the stage to the other), and 14 years together will be over,” said class speaker Creighton Urban as he counted off each step.

For Kalie Buenting, a group of eight local and area law enforcement officers were near the stage to meet her as she made those nine steps with her diploma. The officers were there to honor her and the memory of her father, Rockwell City Police Officer Jamie Buenting, who was killed in the line of duty during a standoff more than a decade ago.

With these new graduates heading out into the world — some to college, some to the military, and some into the workforce, class speaker Ethan Tomkins shared a wish for his classmates.

-Photo by Julie Vinsand
Gowrie police officer Andy Pepples hugs 2024 Southeast Valley graduate Kalie Buenting, the daughter of fallen Rockwell City officer Jamie Buenting, on Sunday in Gowrie.

“Everyone has an impact on you,” he said. “The painted tiles in art class, the trophies in the hallways, the gifts given to teachers … Everyone will have an impact, and I hope that our impact will make past, present, and future students proud.”

In addition to receiving their high school diplomas, Ketcham also honored the students who received scholastic honor roll achievements and service awards.

“Take care of each other,” added Ketcham. “Treat each other kindly.”

-Photo by Julie Vinsand
Webster County Deputy Sheriff Nick Dunbar hugs 2024 Southeast Valley graduate Kalie Buenting, the daughter of fallen Rockwell City police officer Jamie Buenting, on Sunday in Gowrie.

-Photo by Julie Vinsand
Southeast Valley graduates, from left, Ben Thompson, Jace Nelson, Jace Hanson and Ethan Peed stand together at the commencement ceremony Sunday in Gowrie.

-Photo by Julie Vinsand
Nick Nolte hugs his daughter, Ellie, during the Southeast Valley High School graduation ceremony on Sunday in Gowrie. Ellie’s mother, Rochelle, holds a rose and tears up while looking on.

-Photo by Julie Vinsand
Ben Thompson, a Southeast Valley High School graduate, smiles on Sunday during the commencement ceremony in Gowrie.

-Photo by Julie Vinsand
Twins Alivia and Addison Anderson stand together as 2024 Southeast Valley graduates on Sunday in Gowrie.

-Photo by Julie Vinsand
Southeast Valley class speaker Creighton Urban addresses the class during Sunday's commencement eremony in Gowrie.