It's hard to believe the school year will be completed in just a few days. I'm certain it's even more difficult for parents of our senior students to believe it's time to send their children out into the world as young adults.

On Friday, May 27, the class of 2005 will take their walk across the stage to receive their hard-earned diplomas. 384 Bartlesville High School students will graduate with the Bruins' class of 2005. While graduation marks the end of their high school careers, it also represents the beginning of future accomplishments as these students pursue their education, training or careers.

During their four years of high school, the class of 2005 has earned its share of accomplishments. Of these 384 students, 13 will graduate with a perfect 4.0 cumulative grade point average throughout their four years of high school.

This is an incredible achievement, as often, these students are enrolled in the most difficult classes offered at BHS. The same holds true for the 75 seniors currently enrolled as members of the National Honor Society. These diligent students remain committed to academic excellence while balancing participation in numerous extra curricular activities, employment, and involvement in community and church activities. It is the successful balance of these many commitments that will help prepare these students for future success in their adult lives.

The senior class of 2005 has three National Merit Finalists and one National Merit Commended student. In addition, 33 students were named Oklahoma Academic Scholars, and four students earned academic all state honors. Several members of the Class of 2005 earned All-State honors in athletics, vocal or instrumental music. One student was also named a recipient of the Robert Byrd Scholarship.

Our community has enjoyed the performances of these students whether on the athletic fields or in the gymnasium or the stage in the new Fine Arts Center. The countless hours they have spent practicing their skills and talents have enabled them to compete at the state level and they have represented BHS and our community very well.

To the Class of 2005, I would like to add my congratulations on your achievement and on this new beginning in your lives. While you have accomplished many significant goals, you have a tremendous source of knowledge and potential to pursue even higher goals; continue excelling in whatever you do.

To the parents of graduating seniors, I would like to say thank you for your support of these students throughout their academic years, our students are a success largely because of the encouragement, support, and love of the families who stand behind them.

To the upcoming class of 2006, the legacy of academic excellence has been set by these graduates and the Bruin alumni of years past. I know you will continue with the tradition of excellence that Bartlesville students are recognized for throughout the community and the state of Oklahoma .

Finally, to the staff at Bartlesville Public Schools, thank you for your continued dedication to these students throughout all grade levels. As we celebrate the achievements of our seniors, we do so realizing their success is built on a strong academic foundation established throughout their elementary and middle school years. At Bartlesville Public Schools we continue Striving for Excellence!