By Debbie Robinson

news@joplinglobe.com

PICHER, Okla. — The 11 members of the 2009 Picher-Cardin School District graduating class crossed the stage and accepted their diplomas as the last senior class before the school district locks the doors for good at the end of this term.

More than 200 people packed into the commons area at the high school to cheer the graduates.

The residents, who live in the former lead and zinc field, are being offered buyouts through a federal program prompted by the cave-in risk in the area and environmental contamination left behind by the mining era.

But on Friday night, the focus was on the graduating seniors as they entered the commons area to the traditional processional.

Co-valedictorians Kayla Underhill and Melissa Snow thanked all those who guided them and supported them through their journey.

“We remember all those who started with us,” Underhill said.

The student population has dwindled over the past few years because of the buyouts and families relocating to other towns.

The district’s enrollment dropped to 52 students this year in kindergarten through grade 12, compared with 106 students last year.

“Everyone who came to this school will remain a part of us forever,” Underhill said.

The two young women recalled the trials and tribulations that have been endured the past few years, such as the buyout and a deadly tornado last year.

Their freshman year, Underhill said, was normal with clubs and sports, but those were eliminated as the student population dropped.

“Even through the tornado, our Gorilla spirit stayed strong,” she said.

Snow and fellow graduate Eric Allen Reeves received awards from the American Legion Post 147 in Miami for distinguished achievement. Snow also was honored by the Community Teachers’ Association for achievement and dependability.