Mark's Dad

Well, it's official. Mark has graduated from high school.

Our little graduate

Sometimes it's hard to believe that he's done. Other times it seems like it is about time. The graduation ceremony was held 30 May 2012 in the events center on the Utah Valley University campus. Grandpa and Grandma Sorenson and Aunt Val were able to attend as well. Since Mark was in the top 20 of his class, he sat on the stage and was recognized with them for their accomplishment. (As a side note, five of the top 20 were from our ward. I thought that was pretty remarkable.)

Several people asked us if the graduation was emotional for us. Mark has always had high aspirations, so the graduation was a foregone conclusion. It was not an emotional experience, but it was a nice recognition.

We had a low-key celebration afterward. Marsha made lasagna for dinner and we bought a giant Costco apple pie for dessert. Mark had a grad night at the school starting at 11:00 that night. It lasted until 4:00 AM and then he spent the rest of the night with some friends.

Here are some of Mark's HS accomplishments:

• Knowledge Bowl team member in 9th grade (1st place finish)
• Tennis team 4 years
• Sterling Scholar in science
• 4.0 grade point average for all four years of school
• Top 20 in his graduating class (they didn't publish the order)
• Scholarships to BYU, BYU-I, Utah State, U of U (going to BYU in the fall)
• Voted most likely to create the next wonder of the world
• 11 AP classes (and tests) including seven his senior year
• Orchestra grades 9-11 (a couple of stints as concert master)
• Marching band 11th grade
• Symphonic band (trombone) 10th grade
• Jazz band (piano) 12th grade

One of Mark's senior portraits

 One of the most impressive things to me about Mark and his group of friends is that they made a goal to do baptisms for the dead in every active LDS temple in Utah. There are currently three under construction and one closed for reconstruction. Outside of those, they have visited the other 12 temples in the state. What a great thing for a group of seniors in high school to do!

Senior portrait with violin

Over the last few weeks as school was coming to a close, we had the opportunity to attend concerts (jazz band), awards ceremonies and graduation for Mark. On several occasions, I have had people say to me, "You must be Mark's dad." and then talk about something they like about Mark. What an honor it is to be seen in the glow from such an awesome kid!

Congratulations Mark! We are proud of you. I am proud to be known as Mark's dad.