Chirisa Coleman final Riverside graduate
June 4, 2013
The late Riverside High School's final graduation ceremony; (l-r) teacher Carole Lee, Haley Cromwell, Josh Barton, Jon Barton, Chirisa Coleman and teacher Vicki Downing.
Though its doors were closed mid term this year, one final graduation ceremony for Riverside High School on Friday to honor a single graduate, Chirisa Coleman.

Actually, there were two; Shailey Bertling also graduated, but chose to take part in the BFHS graduation ceremony, where the Riverside Class of 2013 was merged after the school's closure. Three other former Riverside students; Haley Cromwell, Jon Barton and Josh Barton, are on the verge of graduation, with just a few more requirements to meet to earn their diplomas.

"These kids worked really hard and overcame many obstacles to get this far," said Title 1 paraeducator Debbie Flory. "They should be recognized."

Sadly, it was the smallest graduating class ever for Riverside; after the closure at the beginning of this year, several students, unable to adapt at Bonners Ferry High School, dropped out.

Former Riverside staff extend their thanks to the United Methodist Women's Group, the Mt. Hall Church, Bonners Ferry Baptist Church, Mountain Springs Church and the Segue House Group for their continued support of the Riverside students.

"You helped this struggling school when everyone else gave up on Riverside School," Flory said. "You were there until the very end. We will be forever grateful."