The places they will go

Exactly one month before the members of Rhinelander High School class of 2025 walk on stage to receive their diplomas, the majority of them were honored Thursday, celebrating the pathways they will take beyond high school.

RHS held its second annual Senior Signing Day at the Jim Miazga Community Gymnasium. With much of the RHS student body on hand, several parents and representatives from a number of in-state universities, Thursday marked a symbolic day for many in the class as they shared their future plans. 

“We have students that are planning to travel across the country, some upwards of 3,000 miles to go to school,” said SDR College and Career Counselor Lexi Allen, who organized the event. “We have some who are doing their apprenticeship training, others going straight into the workforce. No matter what direction they are headed, I know each and every one of you are going to do amazing things.”

District superintendent Eric Burke said the Class of 2025 will go down as one of the most accomplished in Rhinelander High School history, noting that the class, collectively, achieved the school’s highest ACT scores as juniors and that more college credits were earned at RHS during the 2024-25 school year than any other year in school history. 

“This class is pretty special,” he said. “Service is a big part of what this class about, not only as a part of the school, but also part of clubs, sports, and activities. This class is really something special.” 

In his remarks, RHS principal Shane Dornfeld credited the work of the faculty at RHS for guiding this years class, but said none of it would have been possible without the work of the students, who he called “the stars” of Thursday’s program. 

“Your dedication, passion, and hard work have brought you at this moment, and we couldn’t be more proud of each and every one of you,” he said. 

Dean of Students Aaron Kraemer served as the emcee for Thursday’s ceremony and said this year’s senior class has left a legacy of care for itself, others and the school that will be felt well after their final stroll through the halls at RHS.

“Seniors, each one of you has embodied this mantra that defines our school community,” he said. “You are taking care of yourself by setting goals, overcoming obstacles, and making choices that reflect your dreams. The commitment you’re making today, whether to a college, a career, the military, or another next step, is the proof of the work that you’ve put in and the belief that you have in yourself.” 

Students took turns making their way to the stage in groups — paired together by attending common schools, or taking similar paths into the military or workforce after graduation. They received commemorative Hodag pennants from SDR board members in attendance, Duane Frey, Judy Conlin and Merlin Van Buren. Some also received mementos from their future landing spots. A number of representatives from UW-System schools were on hand, as well as representatives from Nicolet College, NorthCentral Technical College, the U.S. Army and the Army National Guard. 

All who got up on stage had a chance to sign a symbolic letter of intent regarding their future plans. According to information supplied by RHS, 118 students announced their plans to either two- or four-year universities, to branches of the military, into trades apprenticeships or into the workforce (see sidebar).

“Today, we don’t just sign papers, we sign off on a chapter full growth, friendship and purpose, and we look forward to everything you’re about to write in the next one.” Kraemer said. “We’re proud of you. We’re cheering for you, and remember, we’ll always be your biggest fans.”

Jeremy Mayo may be reached at [email protected].