News

The cloudy weather threatened Saturday morning but ultimately cooperated as the senior class of Watonga High School marked the completion of its years of grade school. The commencement ceremony was held at Eagle Stadium before a crowd of family and friends.

The revamped Watonga City Council met Tuesday evening at City Hall for a relatively brief meeting as they prepare to dig into the budget for the next fiscal year. The council discussed the recent Bikes & BBQ event, appointed members to the public library board, and renewed its contract with the T.B.

Watonga Elementary held a retirement party Tuesday for longtime teacher and coach Renee Ross. Dozens of Ross’ co-workers and family members, many of whom she taught herself, gathered in the school library for the celebration. Ross was with the district for 41 years. “I came back home (to teach) because I loved it,” Ross told the group. “I thought I could make a difference in Watonga. People say, why did you stay this long? Because I love it. I love it here. I love being an Eagle. I loved everything about it.” Ross found out during her party that she has been selected the 2020-2021 Watonga Public Schools District Teacher of the Year.

Geary students and their families gathered Tuesday, May 4, in the Field House for a celebration of SkillsUSA members and their achievements over the past two years. The banquet included an awards presentation for Geary students and a “signing day” ceremony for seniors who’ve decided what career path or further education they’ll pursue after graduation.

Watonga’s first Bikes & BBQ event was held last week downtown, drawing hundreds to the city for two days of food, music and events. Organizer John Morris said the inaugural rally was a huge success.