June 4, 2025
Gray Stone Alum addresses graduating Class of 2025
By Staff Reports
Gray Stone Day School
Gray Stone Day Class of 2025
MISENHEIMER- On Saturday, May 31, Gray Stone Day School proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 in a heartfelt ceremony recognizing both academic achievement and community impact.
88 students received their diplomas in front of a packed audience of family, friends, and faculty, marking the culmination of four years of hard work, resilience, and growth.
The ceremony began with a processional of “Pomp & Circumstance” performed by Uwharrie Brass Ensemble, followed by a welcome and Pledge of Allegiance led by Lilly Dangerfield.
Board of Directors Chairman, Stephen Chambers greeted the audience and praised the students for their perseverance, hard work, talent and future potential.
The keynote speaker and 2007 Gray Stone graduate was Alyssa Harris, Director of the Rowan County Health Department.
Harris offered words of advice on giving back to your community as well as overcoming obstacles through resilience.
“You’ve lived through a pandemic and learned how to navigate change. Whether you were leading clubs, playing sports in unpredictable seasons, or simply showing up every day and doing your best, those moments count.
Those choices have shaped you for what is to come. Additionally, Harris added, “Don’t forget about your home.
Your community needs you. Whether you leave or stay, know that you will never forget the value of giving back.
We need young people to be here for your voice to be heard, your energy, and for your perspective to make communities better.”
Mrs. Helen Nance, chief administrative officer, recognized this year’s class as they continue the school’s tradition of excellence, earning an impressive $4,592,393 in scholarship offers.
In addition to their academic successes, the Class of 2025 gave back to the community in a big way, completing more than 2,400 hours of volunteer service where they served in churches, hospitals, and many non-profit organizations.
95% of the students will attend colleges and universities including Columbia University, Wake Forest University, Duke University, and High Point University, while one graduate, Madison Driscoll has enlisted in the US Air Force.
The ceremony featured musical performances and speeches from student speakers, Maxwell Foote, Georgia Sangster and Hudson Sharp. Each spoke to the past, present and future of their educational journey.
Nance presented the 2025 Gray Stone Day School Board of Directors’ Scholarship to Wesley Plyer, son of Allison and Brandon Plyler.
This annual award is presented to a senior who exhibits the highest standards of personal integrity, has consistently demonstrated responsibility, and exceptional service to others in the community.
Plyer participated in Mock Trial, Model UN, Quiz Bowl and was a member of the men’s tennis team.
He was selected to the Hugh O’Brien Youth Leadership Conference by his teachers and volunteered over 45 hours for Toys for Tots.
Plyer will attend East Carolina University in the fall.
Shortly after the students walked across the stage to receive their diplomas, principal Jeff Walter presented the Class of 2025 to an electric applause.
Mortar boards were thrown in the air and the students were on their way to the next journey.
Gray Stone Day School is a public charter school for grades 6-12 and free to attend.