And now the real world.

Two-hundred and fifty-four graduates of the Class of 2008 at Neosho High School moved their tassels and received diplomas at commencement Saturday night under the golden glow of the dusk sun and the bright lights at Bob Anderson Stadium.

The graduates were greeted by loud cheers from the overflow crowd in the stands, as parents, family and friends had to sit in the grass hills next to the bleachers and stand in every open space to catch a glimpse of their son or daughter, niece or nephew, as they took their seat on the football field.

Ray Godfrey, who will compete his 19th and final year teaching in the Neosho R-5 School District and former varsity football coach, served as the keynote speaker as chosen by the senior class.

After sharing stories and memories of the students of the class of 2008, Godfrey spoke about the importance of one’s character.

“It is the character of a person that people will see and remember, not always your name,” Godfrey said. “Your character and reputation will stay with you forever. Seniors, I do appreciate the opportunity (to speak to you), and I appreciate all you have done. I appreciate you, and you are a great group.”

Dr. Richard Page, superintendent of Neosho R-5 Schools, commended the senior class for their “patience.”

“You have had to deal with an awful lot during your time at NHS,” Page said. “An ice storm, floods, sewer leaks, and then the recent storms. You have always been patient through these times. You have been patient when dealing with the construction at the high school, and I appreciate you for it. Senior hall, auditorium, north entrance of the gymnasium, cafeteria — all those things have changed, and I appreciate you working with us in that process. Because what is going to happen is that we are going to be better off than we have before. I want to thank you and your parents for making Neosho Schools a better place. There will always be change, and I hope you are now ready for it.”

During her valedictorian speech, Kisa Clark related the journey through school to a long and winding road — a road similar to one found in a famous movie.

“Life is not like any road around here,” Clark told her classmates. “It is not the boulevard or Highway 71. It is more like the yellow brick road in “The Wizard of Oz.” It is not black and white, but colorful and full of excitement. There are many twists and turns in the yellow brick road, and it takes you to many places. Because it is so colorful, life is filled with excitement and more opportunities. Life often changes and goes through many phases.”

Laila Khan, salutatorian of the NHS class of 2008, said she will not miss the building, but she will miss the people.

“I will miss those teachers who have helped me along the way,” Khan said. “I also made many good friends. We all have fond memories of high school.”