On the evening of Wednesday, May 21, nearly 300 members of the McCaskey Class of 2025 filled the Lancaster Marriott for one of the most anticipated events of the school year, the annual McCaskey Seniors Honor Banquet. It was an evening of recognition and celebration that brought together students, educators, administrators to honor the seniors who have poured their hearts into the extracurricular life of the school district.
The event, hosted by McCaskey High School, is a long-standing tradition that recognizes graduating seniors who have demonstrated consistent involvement in school-sponsored activities beyond the classroom. From athletics to performing arts, student government to academic clubs, cultural organizations to community service efforts, every student in attendance has contributed to the school’s identity in their own way.
“This is one of my favorite evenings of the year,” said McCaskey Principal Justin Reese. “We get to pause and recognize our students not just for what they’ve accomplished, but for how they’ve engaged. We talk often about preparing students for life after high school, but tonight we see just how much they’ve already given to our school community. They’ve brought energy, leadership, and authenticity in ways that truly matter. This evening is a celebration of everything they’ve poured into the past four years, all coming together in one meaningful moment.”
Each student honored at the banquet received a commemorative plate, personalized with their name and designed to represent their journey through McCaskey. It is a symbol that will travel with them long after graduation a reminder of where they’ve been, who they’ve become, and the mark they’ve left behind.
In addition to the plate, students were presented with medallions that correspond to their extracurricular involvement. For some, this meant a single medallion honoring years of dedication to one activity. For others, it meant a collection of symbols representing their wide-ranging interests, an athlete who also performed in the spring musical, a musician who played in both the orchestra and jazz band, a class officer who led various initiatives.
“This is a night about recognition, but also about reflection,” said Superintendent Dr. Keith Miles. “Our students have shown us who they are through their actions, their consistency, and their investment in their peers. Whether through teamwork, creativity, or advocacy, they’ve helped shape a school culture that values voice and connection. It’s an honor to celebrate them here tonight.”
The evening program featured, student speakers and Athletic Director Teasia Pena delivering the keynote speech. Educators who had worked closely with many of the students shared words of encouragement and congratulations, while students expressed gratitude to coaches, club advisors, counselors, and teachers who had walked with them through their high school years.
Perhaps most importantly, the event reflected that these students are more than just participants in school activities, they are culture-builders. Through their commitment to showing up, collaborating, creating, and competing, they’ve helped define what it means to be a McCaskey Red Tornado.
The bonds formed through these shared experiences are real and lasting and while graduation is just around the corner, the impact of the Class of 2025 will remain.
To every student who stepped up, leaned in, and made McCaskey a stronger, more connected place: we see you, we thank you, and we celebrate all that you are. For more photos, visit us on Facebook.
