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Woodside seniors wave to their family and friends during the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. 
Woodside seniors hugs hug each other after the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
A Woodside senior sits with notes to read during the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
Woodside graduate families and friends hold signs and cheer for their senior during the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
Woodside High School Principal Karen van Putten speaks during the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
A Woodside High School grabs a stack of diplomas during the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
A Woodside senior walks up the ramp to the stage to receive their diploma during the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
A Woodside senior waves to his family in the stands after receiving his diploma during the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
A Woodside senior takes a selfie of himself after the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee. 
The family of a Woodside senior hold sings and balloons in an attempt to find them after students make their way out of the stadium after the graduation commencement in Woodside on June 7, 2024. Photo by Adam Pardee.
Woodside High School graduated 408 students during a ceremony on the morning of June 7. To the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance,” seniors, part of the 65th graduating class. walked down to Bradley Field in their bright orange caps and gowns.
Student speaker Lisa Weickert and Valedictorian Simon Campbell reflected on their experiences starting their freshman year of high school on computer screens during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of the school’s tradition the senior class gifted the school with “a unique item that encapsulates” the graduating class. The Class of 2024 gifted a new mascot uniform for Wilbur the Wildcat, a symbol for school spirit and pride. The previous uniform was 8 years old and student presenters explained that the gift will revive and renew Wilbur for future Woodside students.
Upon the announcement, the “new” Wilbur ran down the football field and waved to the crowd.
Principal Karen van Putten thanked the school’s staff and administrators for creating an environment that provided students with “the best public school experience possible.” She recognized the passion, skills and talent of WHS educators.
Van Putten acknowledged the struggles, accomplishments and hard work of the class.
“Courage will be your compass when you face decisions that require resilience and conviction,” van Putten said. “It will be your companion as you strive to make a difference in society.”
She encouraged the class to continue to use their “brilliance, kindness and courage” to make the world a better place.
Watch a recording of the ceremony here.
View the list of graduates here.
