Rooted in Love, Called to Walk Forward

Please take your seats. Please take your seats. Please rise for the processional. You may be seated. Good evening, and it's my honor to welcome you to actually the 40th commencement ceremony of the Claremore Christian School. It was on a Sunday evening in 1986. After the school began in 1984, two years later, we had our first graduate. And yes, I said graduate. Tonight, with these 17 graduates, we want to welcome each of you here to celebrate this really remarkable moment. As we look back and celebrate, we pause to rejoice with these who are graduating, but also look back with thankfulness to those of you who have served over these years. On behalf of the administration, the faculty, and the staff, the school board, I want to extend a warm welcome to each of you who have come out this evening as family and supporting together. We want to recognize the parents who have labored these long years faithfully, and you have a big part, of course, in this celebration of your love and your discipline, your prayer, your instruction that you've given to them. And so we honor you. We honor our teachers, instructors, faculty, those of you who have sacrificially, poured your life into so many. So graduates, tonight represents an important milestone, as you well know. Just the beginning, not your destination. The diploma you receive will take you on to the next areas. And some of you are entering into a phase of your life that's very exciting for you, and you know it, and each of you have that before you. And so I want to encourage you in it as we, tonight, celebrate the 40th graduating class and look ahead with gratitude and expectation for what God's going to do in the future. Thank you for joining us this evening, and congratulations to 2026 graduates. Please welcome, please welcome one of our graduates, Sophie Vaughn, is going to come and pray.

Dear God, we stand here today only because you are with us in every moment. Thank you for standing with us and lining our path during each year. You are there, for every test, assignment, and late night paper we turned in at 1159. Thank you for being there to hold us up when things were difficult, and to celebrate every achievement with us. Thank you for every memory, lesson, and struggle that made us who we are today. We are grateful for every family member, friend, teacher, and spiritual mother or father you placed in our lives to guide us. We thank you for the strength you have given us to finish this year out strong, and we pray for your strength to remain with us as we enter the next season of our lives. As we stand here, being ready to end one chapter and begin another, I pray you help us keep our hearts tender to your guidance. As we enter the different paths you prepared for us, I pray that you will give us wisdom to face life's difficult decisions, strength to walk through hard times, and peace when life feels uncertain. Even though it's hard to say goodbye to the people and places we are so familiar with, we can rest assured that you have everything planned for each and every one of us. I pray for each of my classmates that as they enter into the world, they will not lose sight of you, but will hold fast in every moment. And allow their faith to grow through every challenge. We are so grateful for the time you have given us to grow relationships and make memories that will last a lifetime. One last time, thank you. In Jesus' name, amen.

My name is Jean Williams, and I have the privilege tonight of introducing one of our valedictorians, Ms. Elena Brown. Elena has attended Claremore Christian School for nine years. She's been on the honor roll throughout her whole school career. She's had a 4.0 for the last nine years. She's completed 12 hours of college and a concurrent college, and she's a three-time recipient of the CCS Warrior Award. She's been a multi-sport athlete. She did track for a year, volleyball two years, soccer four years, cross country five years. I'm tired reading this. Basketball for nine years. She was a vital part of this year's basketball state champions, 2A state champions, and that was very, very fun to get to witness. She's got all kinds of awards and accomplishments in sports and volleyball. She was junior high state champion, and she's been a champion of basketball for championship team, basketball, defensive player of the year, heart and hustle, which heart and hustle in everything you do, and I love that about you. All-state two times, junior high state champ, and then again, the 2026 championships team in basketball. Soccer, that's your first love, right? Defensive MVP, all-around MVP, all-state two times, and four-time state champ. In addition to all of the above, she's a very gifted and talented and creative artist. Elena's future plans are to go to John Brown, and she's a very talented and creative artist. She's a very talented and creative artist, and she's a very talented and creative artist. She's a very Elena has a heart for missions, and last summer, she had the opportunity to go to Panama on a mission trip, and she's going to go again this year in July, and I was blessed to be a part of that trip last year, and I had known of Elena and seen her for years and years, and I'd always thought very highly of you. I really had, but after that trip, and if you really want to get to know somebody, a mission trip is really the way to do it because it really brings out all the the raw that there is in you. But it's also one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do and so much fun. But on that trip, my opinion of you, Elaine, it grew and grew even more than it was before. And the real you, I got to see the real you. I got to see your true character, your heart for others, your faith, and your genuine relationship with the Lord. And one thing that I say about some of these girls that I've been around a lot in the last year is all I needed to see was their Bible. Unbelievable. And Elaine, yours is that way too. So, but there's one other thing that Elaine is very good at, and I'd be very remiss if I didn't mention this and say something about this. So, she is very adept at taking 100 pinwheels and assembling them and distributing them in my yard at night without being discovered. So, with that, Elaine, I'd like to invite you to the platform. Let me flip to my page. Okay.

Thank you for that. It honestly feels surreal that I get to stand up here before all of you. Many of you actually are the reason I have this opportunity. When I started writing this speech, I wrote it as a prayer of gratitude to God. I really just wanted it to flow from a place of genuine thankfulness in my heart. And with that being said, it's safe to say you'll be hearing a lot of thank yous. I wanted to start off saying, I'm so grateful that you're here. I'm so grateful that you're here. I'm so grateful that you're here. I'm so grateful for this class, truly. There are people here that I get the privilege to say I've grown up with. Sophie, Tatum, Troy, Eli. These are also people who've got a front row seat to my testimony, along with the teachers and classmates who have joined along the way. Though you can't really tell anymore, many of you may not know that I have an autoimmune condition called alopecia, where the immune system basically attacks my hair follicles. I personally developed this condition at the age of six. So, when I started here in third grade at age seven, CCS personally got to see me grow and grow and grow. So, I'm so grateful for this class. Through the challenges I faced being a young girl dealing with hair loss, I wanted to share this because CCS was a place I truly felt seen and supported. I don't remember much from when I first started, but what's so special is what I do remember is coming into third grade and immediately feeling supported and surrounded by the love of Christ. I started at CCS wearing these big heavy wigs to cover my hair loss, but I don't remember that lasting long. Mrs. Blair probably didn't know what to do the day little Elena walked into class before recess and asked if she could take her hair off. So, I started at CCS wearing these big heavy wigs to cover my hair loss, but I didn't take off her wig because it was too hot outside. I vividly remember, as she and I have discussed, throwing it off, stuffing it into my backpack, and going back out to play. It seems like such a silly and insignificant moment, but it represented the comfort and support I felt within this school, which has continued the entire time I've been here. That at such a young age, I didn't feel it necessary to hide behind a wig. I've had to deal with my hair loss journey to some degree throughout my entire time here, and my friends have had to deal with countless ball jokes, which I fortunately can't make anymore. But coming into the school with this experience really paved the way for assurance that the body of Christ shows up and supports. How blessed am I that Christ secured my identity in him at such young age, surrounded by people I loved and who I knew loved me.

Along with Mrs. Blair, Ms. Sharp and Mrs. Blackburn played significant roles in my elementary and junior high years. Ms. Sharp, I don't remember there ever being a dull moment in your class. From your shark and taco room and Charles Dickens dance, to our wax museums and always an intense game of four on the couch, I don't remember there ever being a dull moment in your class. You made fourth and fifth grade unforgettable. Though I will say I still have nightmares of you busting out that awful guitar to serenade us and always fearing for my life anytime I got hiccups because I knew at any given moment you'd slam on my desk to scare them out of me. Mrs. Blackburn, I had you during 2020, so sixth grade was cut short, yet it was one of my most memorable years, which speaks to your character. You probably don't realize how much of an impact you made on us besides us raving about your class and how we miss it whenever we get a chance to see you again. I'm so grateful for you. I'm so grateful for you. I loved our drama-filled history lessons, specifically Henry VIII, reading the Narnia series in Little Women, and just your class in general, because I knew you loved us like your own. For my high school years at CCS, I've had so many amazing teachers. Mr. Lehman, I've had you since seventh grade, yet this year has been my favorite. The meaningful conversations we've had have made my couple of hours at CCS this senior year impactful and worth it. Mrs. Putman, even though I haven't had you as a teacher, I've loved seeing your face every time I leave for the day. I still have a prayer and verse you wrote out for me in my Bible a day when I was sick a couple years ago because it was so precious to me. Mr. B, though I didn't speak up much in your biblical law class, the biblical foundations you taught us will stick with me for the rest of my life. Mrs. Sanders, I've loved getting to talk with you and enjoy your presence and humor the past two years. Getting to hear your story and know someone also shared in my autoimmune annoyances and understood has been such a blessing. I love you so much. Mr. Vaughn, thank you for always making class fun with your witty jokes. Webster's 18th grade teacher, I love you so much. Mrs. Osborne, though I don't think you're here tonight, thank you for being a safe space here at CCS. Your class was one I looked forward to each day, not just the amazing books we read, but your intentionality and care for each and one of us. Your circle times made a place for us to step out of our normal school day, sit down and be real. Whether it was laughing or crying together, sharing praise reports and prayer requests, or just talking about our week, you brought a house church feel to our little school, which I love. Mrs. Osborne, though I don't think you're here tonight, thank you for being a safe space here at CCS. Your circle times made a place for us to step out I'm so thankful for.

Now, throughout my entire time at CCS, athletics has played a significant role in all the precious memories and experience I have surrounding the school. Starting basketball in fourth grade, you have never caught me not playing a sport in my time here. And throughout it all, without fail, Coach Katie has been there, and Coach Z. She has been my track, cross country, and most important, my basketball coach, and I wouldn't have traded that for the world. Having someone I respect who supports, loves, and has pushed me to achieve more than I could have imagined has been life-changing. Thank you for always being personable and for caring deeply for each of your players. Also, I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to play high school soccer with the right Christian for so many years. It is a sport I've played since I can remember and hold so dearly to my heart. To my parents, I love you very much, and I wouldn't be the person I am today without you all my life. Mom, you're the strongest person I know. You carry the weight of so many people, yet still have the energy to answer all my phone calls and hear about my day. You've been there for me in my toughest moments as someone I could always run to. Dad, you love so deeply and sacrificed so much for us. Thank you for always showing me what it means to work hard at what you love. Oh, and also, our jokes and humor are truly unmatched. Don't doubt the significance of the role you both have played in shaping who I am. God knew I needed you both, and I'm so blessed to have been shown the love of Jesus by you. So even though this is short, know that nothing could ever change how much I love you guys and how grateful I am to God that I have you. And to my siblings, you guys know I love you. Annabelle, thank you for being my sister and friend. Enjoy having a room to yourself. Aiden, I admire how hard you work at the things you love. Keep it up. Austin, I love you, buddy. I'm going to miss our morning car rides.

Now to my classmates, I wouldn't have chosen any other class to be a part of and walked out all these years together with. I really am so thankful for how close our class has been. You either tolerate each other or learn to become friends when you're together this long. I really am so thankful for each one of you, and the years spent debating, singing, and laughing at each other will be missed. I'm also incredibly blessed and grateful to know that lifelong friendship is the only thing that I can do for you. I love you. Friendships are emerging from this class. That is the biggest blessing I could have asked for. Sophie, I love that I get to call you my childhood's best friend. Shay, you light up a room. Riley, your heart for others is so evident. Vaughn, your encouragement and confidence is unmatched. Hannah, I love your earnestness to seek the Lord. Olivia, I admire your wisdom. Tatum, I love that I've gotten to grow up with you. Jessa, I don't know much about you, but you're the coolest person I know. The boys, thank you for bringing joy and a little sarcasm to each and every day. Noah, thanks for the kindness you show everyone. Caleb, thanks for always making us all laugh. Kale, thanks for encouraging everyone around you. Calvin, ballerina, calvina. Sawyer, why are you so fast? Eli, you're one of the coolest artists I know. Troy, I love that we've also grown up together. And Daniel, thanks for always putting up with our jokes. I'm truly so excited for where life is going to take us and how God is going to use every one of you to make an impact. I want to end with a verse that has encouraged me throughout my whole life, and I hope it will continue to do so. I hope it encourages you. John 16:33 says, "I've told you these things that in me you may have peace. In this world you have trouble, but take heart. I have overcome the world."

Thank you.
Well, hello. My name is Joel Blair, and I get the pleasure of introducing another co-valedictorian. It's my great joy and privilege as her father to introduce your next speaker and co-valedictorian, Rebecca Sophia Blair, known to all of us as Sophie. She's also an extraordinary student. I think she's had a 4.0 since birth. Don't remember her ever making a B. But her accomplishments go far beyond the classroom. She's All-State and All-Tournament in basketball and volleyball. And I think that goes all the way back through junior high as well. She's a gifted artist. She's a songwriter. She's a worship leader. This fall, she'll attend Rogers State on full ride, which, you know, whoo! That made mom and dad happy. She's participating in both the honors program and the president's leadership class, you know, following in her sister Kaylee's footsteps. But what truly makes Sophie, Sophie is, you know, her spirit, her love for the Lord, her love for people, her enthusiasm. She brings life and fun wherever she goes. And her mother and I couldn't be more proud of her and the woman that she's become. So please join me in welcoming her.

Thank you for welcoming one of your 2025 valedictorians, Sophie Blair.
All right. Honestly, as I sat down to write this speech, I was just overwhelmed with memories from the past 13 years of my life. In fact, I've probably spent more time in a CCS building than anywhere else. CCS has been a second home, but not because of the building itself, although I know it well, as does every high school student attempting to navigate through those tiny hallways. But truly, it's been a home because of the building itself. Being here for 13 years, I've seen countless people come and go. But I can honestly say that the Lord has been so faithful in bringing the right people into my life in every season and exactly when I needed them. I have been so blessed by the community of teachers and leaders who have supported me throughout this journey. I've grown up with the same people for years, and I found the most meaningful, Christ-centered and fulfilling friendships.

I do want to begin this speech by recognizing the people who've been the foundation of my entire journey, which is my parents. Dad, thank you for always providing for and supporting me, for helping me with my math homework the night before it was due, as I cried at the kitchen table, clearly not inheriting your math brain. Thank you for loving me and supporting me every step of the way, and for driving hours upon hours to watch my games and cheer me on, or to yell at the refs. Thank you for always encouraging me and for never failing to make me laugh. And to my mom, thank you for every morning you turned on my light and sang, so loudly, at 7 a.m. Thank you for driving your little sanguine daughter to every activity she could possibly fit into her schedule. Thank you for being so faithful, not just as a teacher and a mom, but as a friend. I couldn't have made it through without your love, encouragement, wisdom, and support. I love you both so much. And I want to thank the teachers and faculty who have so faithfully poured into this school and us as students. I've seen my mom's faithfulness, and I know that this isn't just a job. It's truly a ministry. Each and every day, I've seen my mom's faithfulness, and I know that this isn't just a job. Each and every one of you has been obedient to the Lord by showing up daily to invest in your students. And as someone who's been here for 13 years, I think I have the credibility to say that you've made a difference. Thank you all for your faithfulness.

While obviously you guys taught me a little something, I mean, I made it up here, what's impacted me most are the memories. Ms. Blackburn, my first and sixth grade teacher, some of my favorite school memories happened in your classroom. Learning about Henry VIII, having wild class discussions, and reading Little Women. I will never forget your kindness and encouragement, and I'm still upset COVID cut off one of my favorite years. Ms. Sharp, you made my elementary years unforgettable with endless pranks and laughs. And by the way, no, it wasn't always mutual laughter. It was Ms. Sharp scaring her students and laughing at us. No, but truly, you were an amazing teacher, from creative projects to incredible parties, especially our 1800s Christmas carol dance that I'll never forget. And of course, my ultimate fourth grade token of love, naming one of my favorite stuffed animals after you. Good old little Jimmy Snowflake. Sorry if that was weird. Ms. Oz, I can't fully describe the impact you've had on my life, but I'll try. You radiate joy, and your laugh and smile light up every room you walk into. Thank you for your intentionality with your students. You have been more than a teacher, you've been a mentor, always encouraging me and pointing me towards Christ. I'll never forget circle times, spontaneous karaoke, endless bits, and the laughs in and out of the classroom. Mr. B, am I allowed to admit that I have a favorite class? Because it was yours. Biblical law was the best class I've ever taken. I loved everything we discussed in that class, and especially having such an intentional teacher so passionate about teaching the truth. You challenged me to think deeply and taught me how to integrate a biblical perspective into every area of my life. You have made such an impact, you and the Tuttle Twins, of course. Ms. Sanders. I don't know how you did it, but you somehow made math enjoyable. You are so authentic, genuine, hilarious, and an incredible teacher. Thank you for always putting up with our chaos, and I wish I could have had you for longer than I did, but it was incredible, and you're the best. Mr. Lehman. Oh, where'd he go? Oh, Mr. Lehman. I've had you since my little seventh grade years, but this year by far has been my favorite. I have loved getting to hear all of your stories and your wisdom, and one of the most impactful memories I have from this year were the days you spent simply sharing your testimony with us. Thank you for always letting me DJ in your class and for sharing your coffee with me. Mr. Vaughn. The Webster's 1828 defines faithful as firmly adhering to duty, of true fidelity, loyal, and true to allegiance. Mr. Vaughn says we always have to define our terms, so if I had to define Mr. Vaughn, it would be faithful. I have learned so much from you, not just from what you say, but from how you live. You truly lead with integrity, exemplifying a love for Christ, and for people.

Throughout my years here, I've had the privilege of playing both volleyball and basketball, and I've made incredible memories in both. Some volleyball memories include hours upon hours of tournaments, blasting music in the bus, in practice, or in the locker room, dance parties, inside jokes, and winning state in junior high after Coach Bell changed our whole rotation the day before. Throughout the years, all of my coaches have impacted me deeply. Coach Bell built my foundation and inspired my love for the game. Coach Henry, who taught me about the perfect mix of competitiveness and fun, and Coach Ray constantly reminded us that who we are in Christ matters more than anything on the court. Each one of these women developed us not only as players, but as women of God. And basketball brought its own memories. Camps, late nights, staying for every single game, and once again, blasting music in the bus, in practice, or in the locker room, dance parties, inside jokes, and winning state in junior high back-to-back. Oh yeah, and winning state this year was pretty cool too. Coach Katie, and Coach C, have been my coaches throughout my whole basketball career, always loving and encouraging me despite every high and low. Coach C was always able to make me smile, even when I was being dramatic because I thought I was having the worst game of my life. And Coach Katie has always loved me so well. She was faithful to remind me of my worth in Christ, not in the sport. And she always pushed me to become a better teammate, player, and person. I am so grateful for them both. I have been blessed with incredible coaches, but the teammates, classmates, and friends I walked through it all are what made this journey so special. We've made so many amazing memories on and off the court, and I'm so incredibly grateful for every team I've been a part of. But I especially want to say how grateful I am to be in this class, the class of 2026. I've practically grown up with so many of you, and even those who joined in later still feel like lifelong friends. We've been through a lot as a class. We've had our ups and downs, but I wouldn't want to do this with anyone else. I love you all, and I can't believe we did it. You guys are truly what made school enjoyable, and the lasting friendships I've made have blessed my life in ways I couldn't imagine. And I know I've spent so much of this speech simply just thanking people, and even this is the edited version. There are so many more of you I could individually thank, but they know how much I love to talk, so they gave me a limit. My only goal of this speech truly was to express how grateful I am. CCS has been such a huge part of my life, 13 of my 18 years, and I wouldn't change that for anything. The memories, friendships, guidance, and growth I've experienced here have shaped me, not only academically, but spiritually. I've had teachers pour into my life and love me enough to go beyond the lesson in the textbook to help shape my character. And for that, I'm so grateful.

To the students still in school, I want to encourage you to press in. This experience is what you make of it, and CCS is truly a blessing. It's not always perfect. There are days where it's hard, and you want out. Trust me, I know. 13 years. But consider asking the Lord to reveal to you why He has placed you here. Ask Him to give you those divine connections and friendships and ultimately aim to shine the light of Christ in the classrooms, in the hallways, and on the court, in every area of your life. Not shame. We don't do that. If you hear nothing else I've said tonight, hear this. Seek the Lord with all of your heart and learn to love Him and truly know Him personally. Everything else you need will flow from a true settledness in Him. Thank you, CCS, for being more than just a school. And Class of 2026, I wouldn't have wanted to do this with anyone else. Congratulations. We made it.

Good evening. I'm Amy Schaefer, and it is my pleasure to introduce our commencement speaker this evening, Michael Black. It is truly a great privilege to introduce him. Michael and his wife, Marin, faithfully oversee the youth ministry of Destiny Life Church, where they serve with passion, integrity, and a deep love for the next generation. Together, they are raising three precious children and modeling a Christ-centered home and family. What makes Michael's story especially meaningful to our church and school family is that he himself came to Destiny Life as a young man, a young 15-year-old teenager, actually, where he gave his life to Christ. Over the years, we've watched him grow in faith, character, and leadership. From serving faithfully in the youth group to eventually stepping into ministry leadership, Michael's life is a testimony to the transforming grace of God and the power of discipleship. Michael has a genuine passion for people, a sincere love for God's Word, and a deep commitment to sound doctrine. He leads with humility, authenticity, and conviction, and he carries a heart to see young people grounded in truth and equipped to follow Christ in every area. It is indeed an honor for me to present to you our 2026 Claremore Christian School Commencement Speaker, Michael Black.

All right. All right. I wore my preacher clothes today. Dallas, get ready to jump on the keys at the end of this. We're going to have an altar call. All right? Man, what a blessing to be with you this evening. First of all, Mr. Vaughn, faculty, thank you so much for having me. They're risking it every time they give me a mic. And, man, I don't take that for granted. I don't take that lightly. I really am grateful. This class means a lot to Marin and I. As Ms. Amy shared, we love the next generation, and this class has had a special place in our heart. It's been really easy to love you guys, some more than others, but it has been really easy to love you guys, Kale. I had to point you out. But, guys, you're here. A little fun fact about this class, in case you didn't know it, they have had senioritis since freshman year, and so they've been looking forward to this class. for a very, very long time. And I asked the faculty, I texted a couple, and I was like, hey, tell me what you will miss about this class, and then tell me what you won't miss, and let's go through that together. I thought that'd just be great. Ultimately, they all said they'd miss your joy, the sounds coming through the halls, the constant singing, the random outbursts of the Star Spangled Banner, several things that just exude joy through the halls of CCS, and if you've been there during a school day, you can feel it, and you can feel it when they're absent. Mrs. Sharp said that she's going to miss your honorary jokes. They prove your love for her. You know, I think about sarcasm, and I think about the jokes of this class, probably one of the funnier classes we've had, but it proves the safety that you felt in the environment of family that you felt inside of the school, and I just think it's really admirable that they would create an atmosphere for you to be you, and to love life and enjoy learning. They're going to miss your passionate pursuit for the things of God. Every one of you at some point in time has shown true passion to know God and know Him rightly, and you've asked questions that not most people ask and pursued in ways that most people don't pursue, and that's something to be commended and honored and challenged to continue, and Ms. Shirley, she ultimately just said she's going to miss everything about you. She couldn't name anything that she wouldn't miss. I even asked her, like, really, please name something that you're not going to miss, and she just said, I can't. I love him too much. I'm going to miss him too much. What they won't miss, though, is the conflict between Shea and Daniel. That won't be missed. Mr. B did say he's not going to miss the renditions of the Star Spangled Banner. He specified he's not going to miss that one. He was trying to teach guys, and shout out, apparently, I'm going to try to take Mr. B's biblical law class. That sounds incredible. I'm going to try to take that. Mr. Vaughn said he's not going to miss your consistent requests to have a free day instead of class. I know that that was a frequent request. You even asked me sometimes. I had the authority to give that. But yeah, they're not going to miss that. But in all of this, what they're going to miss the most is you, not what you do or didn't do. They're going to miss you. I think that's something to speak to, the reality that who you are is the most valuable thing. That's why we're all here tonight. It's because you're deeply loved. Some of you excelled at school. Some of you excelled at sleeping. But regardless of what you did or didn't do, you were deeply loved. And each of you are going to be missed. Not because of what you did, but because of who you are. And I believe that's a foundation that you can stand upon for the rest of your life to know you were loved and are loved and will continue to be loved every day going forward. There's a lot of life ahead of you. There's going to be hardships and difficulty, a lot of joy, a lot of fun. But to know that at the end of the day, you have a family around you, biological and spiritual, that love you and only want the best for you. Man, that's an incredible foundation to start on. It's incredible to me that as I think of this love that is felt towards you, it's just a fraction of the love that God has for you. That every bit of love that I feel swell up in me as I look upon you guys and think about you, it's like, God, you love them even more. And you have even more for them than I could ever imagine.

Paul says in Romans 8 that he's sure that neither death nor life, angels nor rulers, things present nor things to come, nor powers, height or depth, anything else in all creation, nothing will be able to separate you from the love of Christ Jesus, our Lord. I was reading this psalm this week, Psalm 136. If you want to read that whole chapter, it's basically the psalmist just speaking of the steadfast love that endures forever. But at the end, he says this, it's he who remembered us in our lowest, lowest state for his steadfast love endures forever. He rescued us from our foes for his steadfast love endures forever. It's he who gives food to the flesh for his steadfast love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of heaven for his steadfast love endures forever. I think about life ahead. I think about a truth that I want just implanted in the depths of your being is that there is a God who loves you and knows you by name and knows you by name and that love is steadfast and it endures forever. And there is nothing that can separate you from it. I have zero doubt that you guys will go do incredible things. Some joining the workforce, some going into education to go into further studies of things and all of those things. It's like, man, I know that you're going to do awesome stuff, but know that you have a family and a father that love you and are supporting you the whole way. And when life feels alone, you're going to have you are never alone. My challenge to you guys is the challenge of Paul to Timothy. Paul writes in 1 Timothy 1 and he challenges Timothy to wage good warfare by holding faith and good conscience. The father speaking to his son and he says, hey, hold your faith in a good conscience and fight good warfare. Later on in chapter 6, he says, fight the good fight of faith. This fight that we're speaking of is not a literal fight as much as some of you would like for it to be. I'm in that party. I've never been in a fight. Thought it'd be cool someday, but Lord's not letting it happen. So whatever. This is not a physical fight. This is a spiritual one. Paul says that we do not wage war against flesh and blood, against principalities and powers of the unseen world. This is a spiritual thing that's fought. It's going to be fought in moments that you don't feel like fighting. You're not going to feel amped up for this one. But my challenge to you tonight is the challenge of Paul and that is to hold your faith and keep a good conscience. What does that mean? It means cling to who God is and stay faithful to what he's called you to do. And here's the beauty is even when you veer because you will and I have, he's a loving father. He is faithful and just to forgive and he loves you enough to walk it out with you for the rest of your days. Fight well, keeping eyes on Jesus who is the founder and perfecter of your faith. And I think about all the paths that you're taking. It's like that's the one word that's strong that stretches across all of them is to fight well, fight the good fight and keep your eyes on Jesus. I love you guys so much and I'm so proud of you and I'm so excited to see all that you'll do. But more than anything, we love who you are and one of you will be receiving the zebra clogs very soon, okay? Just so you know, you will be receiving them. That is a graduation gift. Just want you to know, okay? I love you guys. Thank you so much. It's like faster. All right, seniors, you ready? Seniors, please rise. See you to the platform. Sophie Blair.

Sophie has attended Claremore Christian for 13 years. During that time, she's played basketball for nine years, volleyball for seven and ran cross country for three. Sophie also served on student council for five years and the chapel band for four years. She has been named the volleyball offensive player of the year the past three years and basketball impact player of the year for one year. She has been on the 4.0 honor roll for four years, earned 12 hours of college credit and is validated Victorian. Sophie plans to attend Rogers State University to study business administration and graphic design. She wants to become a local business owner and remain active in the community. Sophie was accepted into the RSU honors program with a scholarship total of over $80,000.

Rebecca Sophia Blair. Tatum Boutwell. Tatum has attended Claremore Christian School for 11 years. During that time, she participated in cross country for three years, basketball for five years, and volleyball for five years. She earned numerous athletic awards including the Volleyball Offensive Player Award and the Volleyball Elite Serving Award. After graduation, Tatum plans to attend Tulsa Community College to study psychology and pursue a career as a behavioral therapist. Tatum Elizabeth Boutwell. Elena has attended Claremore Christian School for nine years. During her time at CCS, she's played basketball for nine years, volleyball for two, cross country for five, ran track for one year even. She also played soccer for Wright Christian Academy for four years. Elena has received numerous athletic honors throughout high school, including Defensive Player of the Year in basketball, MVP in soccer, being named an All-State team member in both soccer and basketball, as well as winning state championship titles in both soccer and basketball. Elena has received the CCS Warrior Award three times, maintained a 4.0 GPA all four years of high school, earned 12 hours of college credit, and is valedictorian. Elena plans to attend John Brown University to study psychology while minoring in art. She has received multiple scholarships totaling $84,250. Elena Crystal Brown. Riley has attended Claremore Christian School for seven years. During this time, she's played basketball for four years, volleyball for six, and served on student council for three. Riley received multiple sports awards, including the Coach's Choice Award in volleyball. Riley was on the 3.5 honor roll for one year and the 4.0 honor roll for two years. She has also earned 12 hours of college credit. After graduation, Riley plans to study occupational therapy at Tulsa Community College and hopes to study abroad to strengthen her Spanish fluency. Riley Deanne Flynn. Roy Frank. Carl has attended Claremore Christian School for 12 years. During his time at CCS, he's played football for five years, basketball for eight years, baseball for two years, and ran track for two years. Troy was named the Offensive MVP in football for all Rogers County, all conference in football for two years, and most improved in track for two years. After graduation, Troy plans to work in excavation as a heavy equipment operator at NABOLT. Troy Madden Frank. Dale Gift. Dale has attended Claremore Christian School for three years. During his time at CCS, he's played basketball for two years and drumline for two years. Cale was recognized as Basketball MVP for one year and Offensive MVP for one year. He has earned multiple academic awards, including the Pre-Calc Award and 4.0 Honor Roll. He has also completed 12 hours of college credit. Cale plans to attend Rogers State University to study pre-physical therapy before continuing on to graduate school to become a physical therapist. Cale was accepted into the RSU Honors Program with a scholarship total of over $80,000. Cale, Edward Gift. Jessa Galat. Jessa has attended Claremore Christian School for one year. She was on the 3.5 Honor Roll for one year and the 4.0 Honor Roll for three years. Jessa has earned 12 hours of college credit from Oral Roberts University. After graduation, Jessa plans to attend a university in Japan to study global finance and business. Jessa Frikert Galat. Del Hargis. Olivia has attended Claremore Christian School for six years. She has maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout high school and has received 12 hours of college credit through Oral Roberts University. Olivia is also valedictorian. After graduation, Olivia plans to pursue a career in nursing. Olivia Nicole Hargis. Kennedy. She has attended Claremore Christian School for five years. During his time at CCS, he's been on the 4.0 Honor Roll for three years and received both the physical science and speech academic awards. During his senior year, he earned 12 hours of college credit at Oral Roberts University. Caleb plans to attend Rogers State University to obtain a master's degree in psychology. Caleb received an academic merit scholarship totaling $7,200. Caleb Andrew Kennedy. Noah McClurg. Noah has attended Claremore Christian School for three years. During his time at CCS, he played basketball for three years and football for three years. Noah was a member of the SCAA football championship team. He was on the 4.0 Honor Roll for one year and has maintained a 3.5 GPA throughout high school. After graduation, Noah plans to attend a trade school and pursue a career in HVAC. Noah Jonathan James McClurg. Sawyer McComb. Sawyer has attended Claremore Christian School for seven years. During his time at CCS, he's played football for five years and ran track for five years. Sawyer received the Most Improved Player Award in football and was named Male Runner of the Year in track for two years. He has maintained a 3.5 GPA all throughout high school and earned the National Technical Honor while studying at Northeast Tech. After graduation, Sawyer plans to join the United States Coast Guard and serve our country. Sawyer Weston McComb. Shea McNeil. Shea has attended Claremore Christian School for four years. During her time at CCS, she's played volleyball for four years, ran track for one year, and was part of a student council for one year. Shea has maintained a 3.5 GPA throughout her four years of high school and completed 12 hours of college credit. Shea plans to attend John Brown University to study kinesiology. She received an academic scholarship totaling $84,250. Alaysia Grace McNeil. Eli Reed. Eli has attended Claremore Christian School for eight years. He played basketball for one year, was part of the drumline for one year, and was also the football team's film manager. After graduating from CCS, Eli plans to study architecture. Jerick Elijah Reed. Daniel Snipes. Daniel has attended Claremore Christian School for six years. During his time at CCS, he's played basketball for five years, football for four years, and baseball for two years. Daniel earned football honors including most improved player and MVP. He also earned an HVAC certification through Northeast Tech. After graduating Daniel plans to start his own business focused on health and fitness. Daniel Brett Snipes. Stewart. Hannah has attended Claremore Christian School for two years. During her time at CCS, she played basketball for two years and served on student council for one year. She was named a member of the All-State Basketball Team and was also a member of the CCS State Championship Basketball Team the same year. Hannah has maintained a 4.0 all four years of high school, earned six hours of college credit, and is valedictorian. Hannah plans to attend Rogers State University to pursue a degree in sports management. She was accepted into the President's Leadership Class and received a scholarship totaling $40,000. Hannah Faith Stewart. Calvin Taylor. Calvin has attended Claremore Christian School for five years. During his time at CCS, he's played football for one year, baseball for one year, and ran track for two years. He is a Warrior Award recipient and has been on the 3.5 honor roll each year. Calvin received the Track Newcomer Award as well. After graduation, Calvin plans to begin his welding career at Victory Energy. John Calvin Taylor Jr. Sophie Vaughan. Sophie has attended Claremore Christian School for five years. During this time, she's played basketball for five years and volleyball for four years. Sophie received the Leadership Award in Basketball and was part of the 2026 State Championship Team. She has served as a Student Council Treasurer and Vice President. Sophie received the Anatomy and Physiology Academic Award, maintained a 4.0 GPA all four years of high school, and completed 12 hours of college credit. Sophie plans to attend Oral Roberts University to study education and hopes to also study and work abroad in the future. She has received scholarships totaling $74,750. Sophie Priscilla Vaughan. She's my daughter. That's why I kissed her. Just making sure that's clear.

Seniors, I'm going to reiterate what Mr. Black said. Let's call him Mr. Black. We love you and we're going to miss you a whole lot. You may be seated. All right. Class of 2026, please rise. Acting on the recommendation of the faculty and by the authority vested in me by the Claremore Christian School Board and the State of Oklahoma, I hereby confer upon each of you the diploma earned with all of its rights, honors, and responsibilities. Congratulations to each of you. To signify your graduation, will you please move the tassel from the right to the right Ladies and gentlemen, the Claremore Christian School graduated Class of 2026. Class of 2026. Class of 2026. Class of 2026. Class of 2026. Which school say what's important? I can feel the change in everything And as the surface breaks reflections fade But in some ways they remain the same And as my mind begins to spread its wings There's no stopping curiosity I won't wait to know there's nothing else like that I'll find the things you say just can't be defined I'll share this life I've had with you We can walk, sing and dance together Cheer up, sing I don't want this feeling to grow within me It's too soon I can't wait to think Oh, I can't wait Because I really don't have the fear to fight Things aren't always just what they seem I won't talk about the things tied down I'll find the things you say just can't be defined I'll share this life I've had with you We can walk, sing and dance together Cheer up, sing This world keeps spinning and there's no doubt The way I'm used to saying what's impossible and again I don't want this feeling to go away Please don't go away Please don't go away Please don't go away Is this how it's supposed to be? Is this how it's supposed to be? Slow down when you're crying Crazy child, you're so ambitious for a juvenile. But then if you're so smart, tell me why are you still so afraid? Where's the fire? What's the hurry about? You better cool it off before you burn it out. You got so much to do and only so many hours in a day. But you know how it is when the truth is told. That you can get what you want or you can just get old. But you're gonna kick off before you even get halfway through. When will you realize Vienna waits for you? No, dad, you're doing fine. You can't be everything you wanna be before. Your time will go so romantic on the borderline. Tonight, tonight, together is the life you lead. You're so ahead of yourself that you forgot what you need. You know you can see when you're left alone. You know you can always see when you're right. You're right. You got your pride. But don't you know that even fools are satisfied. Straight on, but don't imagine they'll all come to you. When will you realize Vienna waits for you? So dad, you crazy child. Take the thorn off the hook and disappear for a while. It's all right if you can't afford to lose a day or two. When will you realize Vienna waits for you? When the truth is told and she can get what you want. And you can just get old. You're gonna kick off before you even get halfway through. When will you realize Vienna waits for you? When will you realize Vienna waits for you? When will you realize Vienna waits for you? I took my love, took it down. Climbing mountain and I turned around. And I saw the reflection. It's no cover it is. Till the landslide brought it down. A mirror in the sky. What is love? Can it shine? In my heart, right above. Can I sail through the changing ocean tides? Can I handle the seasons of my life? Well, I've been afraid of changing. Cause I've built my life. Around you. But time makes you bolder. Even the children get older. Getting older too. I've been afraid of changing. Cause I've built my life. Around you. But time makes you bolder. Even the children get older. I've been afraid of changing. Getting older too. Oh, I'm getting older too. I took my love, took it down. Climbing mountain and I turned around. And I saw the reflection. It's no cover it is. Till the landslide brought it down. And if you see my reflection. It's no cover it is. Well, the landslide brought it down. Oh, the landslide brought it down.

Since the inception of our first graduation class, it's been a cherished tradition to bestow a senior blessing and prayer upon Claremore Christian School graduates. A moment that holds profound significance for us all. Each graduate has requested their pastor, youth pastor, or parent or family member to pray over them. I invite the students to step forward and face me. And I invite the parents to come stand behind them. Those who will be praying over the seniors, please come and stand in front of the students. You may begin praying for your students at this time in a few minutes. Mr. Bergthold, our Spanish teacher. We'll come pray a blessing over our seniors. Lord Jesus, we thank you so much for the prayers that have been prayed over these graduates, Lord. Not just this evening, but the faithful prayers that have been prayed for them for years and years. From the time they were young and even before they were born, Lord. The faithful people who were praying for their children's children. I thank you, Father, that this class is carried by prayer and by your word. Lord, I thank you so much for each one of you. I thank you for the strength of these lives, Father. That you have uniquely and fearfully and wonderfully created. I thank you, Father, that as you send them forth, Lord. Even as they are going forth and they're going to be walking different paths. I pray, Lord, that even though their paths may separate, Lord. I pray that the friendships would not. I pray that they would be able to stay close to one another. And continue to walk with each other through life in community together. Lord, I thank you that even though they are leaving Claremore Christian schools. Physically and in their presence, Lord. That they don't need to leave in their hearts, Father. I thank you that the things that they have learned over these last many years that they've attended this school. Lord, the biblical foundations of truth. That have been instilled in their hearts and in their minds. Are going to carry them forward in life, Father. And I pray that no matter what you have called them to, Lord. Whether it's to be in business. Whether it's to be in education. Whether it's to go overseas. Whether it's to work in sports. Or media. Or entertainment, Lord. Or even the great calling of staying home. And fathering or mothering children, Father. And raising up the next generation. That no matter what they do, Father. In their life. I pray that they would know that you will be with them. And that you will help them to accomplish the plans and the purposes. That you have set forth for them to accomplish, Lord. Just as your word said. That you have predestined us to walk in good works. I pray that you would illuminate those good works, Lord. That you have called them to, Lord. That they would go forth in your strength tonight. And for the rest of their lives. In Jesus' name we pray. Amen.

Thank you for praying for our graduates. Family and friends, you may be seated. We conclude our ceremony tonight. We want to thank you for honoring our graduates. This evening, family and friends. Please remain at your seats after the benediction. For our academic recessional. Father, we thank you for this moment. For every story. Every sacrifice. And every student standing here today. Lord, as they go forward. Anchored them in who they are. Not in achievements or titles. But in their identity as yours. For such a time as this. You have called them. Chosen them. And set them apart. So let them stand firm. Unashamed of their faith. Anchored in truth. And built on the firm foundation of you. We are so grateful for this moment. And the great achievement you have blessed them to receive. As well as the community of family. Friends. And CCS family. You have placed around them to support them. In times of celebration like today. And in seasons of sorrow that may come before we step into eternity. Remind them that you are sovereign. Already before them. Beside them. And faithful through every step ahead. Give them courage to stand when it would be easier to compromise. Peace when the future feels uncertain. And confidence in knowing that their lives are held secure. In your hands. May they leave this place rooted. Steadfast. And fruity for your glory. We release them. And bless them into what's next. Covered in your grace. Anchored in your love. And standing firm in your truth. In Jesus name. Amen. Graduates. Faculty. And platform party. Please begin the academic recessional.