It’s that time of year again, as our young people begin the next chapter of their life stories.

On Sunday, Webster City High School and South Hamilton High School seniors will mark the completion of their high school careers by receiving their diplomas.

Some of the graduates will be leaving for college in the fall, others will enlist in the military, and still others will enter the workforce.

It’s also a transitional time for our communities, as we begin anew the process of readying another class of seniors for graduation next year, as well as welcoming a new class of freshmen to the high school. The young people we remember so well when they were just young children are moving on, some to leave Webster City forever, except for the occasional visit home. Others will stay or come back after school to help support and continue our community.

Wherever the 2017 graduates land, we hope they will become invested and involved in their communities. We hope they will volunteer for good causes and play a part in making this a better world for future generations.

The Daily Freeman-Journal congratulates the members of the Class of 2017. Good luck and safe travels.

And remember, although it can be bittersweet, graduation is not the end. On the contrary, it’s just the beginning.