SANTA CLARA — Graduating Native American students were exhorted to “be proud of who you are” as they were honored by the Washington County School District Indian Education Program last Thursday night.

“We have a rich culture, a rich heritage,” featured speaker Shane Parashonts said. “Have pride in who you are. Have pride in the accomplishments that you are here celebrating tonight.”

Parashonts is the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah’s tribal administrator, covering business administration.

The program recognized 10 seniors during the Senior Banquet Ceremony at the district’s Professional Development Center. Thirty total Native American students will graduate high school within the district, said Indian Education Specialist Charline John.

The program started with a chicken and rice dinner provided by Mo’ Bettahs Hawaiian Style Food while a drum group performed. A PowerPoint presentation played during the dinner, showing all the students graduating with background information, including tribal identification, hobbies, future plans and more.

After dinner, the Indian Parent Advisory Committee Student Rep. Isaiah Still welcomed everyone to the banquet.

As part of the opening ceremonies, the Dixie Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps presented the colors, which included all flags of the United States and Utah. However, some tribal flags of the Native American governments that represented graduating students were also carried.

Parashonts spoke about the history and traditions of the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah and how to carry on a legacy of identity.

“Be proud of who you are,” he said. “As you grow, develop and reach this milestone in your life, take the time to have a better understanding of who you are and what you are able to accomplish.”

He said to remember to be courageous, never stop learning and look for opportunities to give back.

The other speaker was Cheri Stevenson, the school district’s new assistant superintendent of secondary education.

“Today is a very special milestone in your life,” Stevenson said. “You’ve worked hard, overcome challenges and grown in countless ways during your time in high school.”

She also gave thanks to the parents and grandparents for their support.

The seniors were all given a graduation package from M & S Turquoise, which included cultural regalia to be worn during their high school graduations. There was also a tribal stone which symbolizes a personal milestone.

Parashonts stressed wearing cultural regalia several times with the recent passing of 2023’s HB 149 by the Utah Legislature.

Graduating students lined up, and as a customary honor song was performed by the Runs Through family, multiple school leaders, family members and those who attended took turns shaking their hands and congratulating them.

The Runs Through family provided Native American music and dancing and Judea Runs Through performed a women’s traditional dance as part of the entertainment.

John, in recognition of the seniors, cited a Navajo chant titled “I walk” in English. She thanked those who contributed to the event, including special thanks to those who donated food and graduation packages.

The Seniors left with smiles on their faces, celebrating with their families.

“Success isn’t just about what you have accomplished,” Stevenson said with emotion. “It is also about who you become.”

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