by Ezabelle Janssen, Staff Writer
BILOXI (GG) — On Thursday, May 15th, the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, Miss. became a sea of maroon and white as the Long Beach High School honored the accomplishments of the Class of 2025.
Long Beach Mayor George Bass expressed his heartfelt sentiments on this momentous occasion: “I can say that I am so proud for each of the students. I was genuinely surprised at the high number of students who are Honor Graduates and those who came so close. This impressive outcome is a reflection of the hard work and commitment from the students themselves, as well as the unwavering support from their parents, teachers, and administrators, all of whom have dedicated countless hours to ensure these achievements are realized.”
The ceremony highlighted outstanding student leaders, with Jose Antonio Garcia III honored as the Salutatorian and Grace Jaden Lefort as the Valedictorian.
The graduates received a warm welcome from Principal Justin Sutton and several other school district principals, including Johanna Hughey from the middle school, Brian Rolison from Harper McCaughan, Sarah Sanzin from W.J. Quarles, and Jennifer Blackwell from Thomas L. Reeves. Showcasing the commitment of the district’s educators even when students leave their hallways.
The school celebrated various academic achievements, and numerous students were recognized: a total of 48 graduates received High Honors, and 81 were recognized for Honors. Among these were 25 dedicated participants from the Collegiate Academy, demonstrating its role as a crucial stepping stone.
Notably, these students, including the valedictorian, earned their associate degrees just one day before graduating from high school. Furthermore, the ceremony acknowledged 71 distinguished honorees, 20 students recognized for Academic excellence, and 23 excelling in Career and Technical Education (CTE). A commendable 39 students from Long Beach High School (LBHS) were recognized as Element Scholars, showcasing their academic achievements.
Long Beach High School proudly claims the highest graduation rate on the Mississippi Gulf Coast at an impressive 95.7%.
The graduating class of 2025 accumulated scholarship offers totaling $3,888,380, underscoring their readiness for the next chapter in their educational journeys.
Among the graduates, Alexis Griffith was recognized as a Semifinalist for the prestigious Presidential Scholar program.
Grace Lefort shone brightly as she was selected for the All-Star Cast at Dramafest, highlighting her talents and artistic contributions. Caroline Feeney and Abigail Glass distinguished themselves as MTA Finalists in scenic design, showcasing their creative flair. Feeney also achieved an impressive 2nd place in Scenic Design at the State MFA. Highlighting the school’s commitment to academics and arts.
The ceremony also recognized the 2025 Finalists for the National Merit Scholar Program, which includes Grace Lefort, Justin Mares, and Aubrey Pingul, showcasing their remarkable academic successes.
As the ceremony drew to a close, the Friendly City of Long Beach radiated pride and excitement as the community rallied around its outstanding students. Congratulations to the graduating class of 2025. Go Bearcats!
