Woodbury High School celebrated its 50th annual commencement ceremony Monday evening, graduating more than 700 students in what officials called the largest graduating class in the school's history.

The Class of 2025 included four valedictorians who achieved summa cum laude distinction with grade point averages of 4.3 or higher, according to Principal Sarah Sorenson Wagner. An additional 72 students graduated with GPAs of 4.0 or higher, while 168 students wore honor stoles recognizing outstanding scholarship.

Honor staff speaker Gary Diamond, selected by the graduating class, encouraged students to embrace challenges and maintain relationships. "Don't back down when things get tough, dig in," Diamond told the graduates. "Show people you care and let them know how important they are in your life, and never stop learning."

Student speakers included the four valedictorians and two peer-selected representatives who addressed themes of authenticity, kindness, and perseverance. The ceremony featured traditional elements including the presentation of colors by Air Force Junior ROTC cadets and the school choir performing the national anthem.

Superintendent Julie Nielsen officially accepted the graduating class on behalf of South Washington County Schools, certifying that all students had met state and district requirements for graduation. The ceremony concluded with the traditional cap toss as graduates began their next chapter.