Freeport High School graduates celebrate on Tuesday.

BUFFALO TWP — Forging through two school years during a deadly pandemic and the untimely death of a member of the graduating class was enough to make Freeport High School Principal Mike Kleckner emotional as he congratulated students and their families on Tuesday night at commencement ceremonies.

Stopping several times to collect himself, Kleckner praised the 158 seniors for leaning on, lifting, supporting and caring for one another through the tough times.

“I hope you will take the time to reflect and look back on this time,” Kleckner said. “I'm proud of you and you'll always be Yellow Jackets.”

This is an excerpt from Wednesday's Butler Eagle. Subscribe online or in print to read the full article.