Friday's Internet Edition, July 25, 2008.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

A total of 157 seniors are expected to receive diplomas during commencement ceremonies that start at 7 p.m. in the gymnasium. The class is the third smallest in the 15-year history of the school.

Members of American Legion Post 21 of Spencer will present the colors before seniors enter to traditional fanfare performed by the school band. The band will also play the national anthem before a welcoming address by senior class president Leah Nazzaro.

Top students from the class will offer remarks to fellow graduates, faculty members and guests. The valedictorian is Jessica Roberts, the daughter of Don and Tammy Roberts of Leroy. She plans to continue her education at West Virginia Wesleyan College in the fall.

Mary Katherine Cox is the class salutatorian. She is the daughter of Christine Cox of Spencer and plans to attend the University of Charleston.

The 2007 graduating class had five valedictorians and two salutatorians.

This year’s program will also feature the selections “Family” and “My Wish” performed by the school ensemble.

Principal David Tupper will present the class to Roane Supt. of Schools Steve Goffreda for the awarding of diplomas by Randy Whited, president of the Roane Board of Education.

School officials said this year’s class includes the first deaf graduates in RCHS history — Kevin Myers and Matt Stump.

Admission to the ceremonies will be by ticket only. Each graduate was given 10 tickets.