Jesus Mirabal and Jacob Insley

   June 2nd marked a celebratory finale for seniors, which allowed them an opportunity to bid goodbye to their high school experience with a final walk across the stage. Graduation is a big step for many, marking a transitional period into the next step of life. For some, this leaps to further education, taking time off, or venturing straight into the workforce. Although graduates may have different destinations, one thing remains consistent: the combination of friends, family and peers always leads to an exhilarating environment full of energy.

   Beginning the ceremony, spirits in the pavilion were ecstatic; future graduates were conversing while friends, peers and family members were finding their seats. As the speeches commenced, Teacher of the Year Mrs. Rossbach gave a heartfelt speech that struck laughter within the audience and provoked deep thought. 

“The hardest part was getting onstage: I was excited to present my speech yet it was still a rush regardless. Once I got onstage, everything began to calm,” Mrs. Rossbach explained.

   After speeches, soon to be graduates made their way behind the stage, preparing for a moment of total spotlight to bask in. As names were called, cheer and applause filled the pavilion while handshakes and diplomas were efficiently handed out, ensuring a graduation where students get the recognition they deserve, while allowing the ceremony to proceed smoothly. 

“Graduation was organized extremely well this year; Mrs. Rashid didn’t miss an ounce of detail,” explained Algebra teacher Mrs. Angel.

   As names were concluded, Senior Class President Grace Hua proudly announced the infamous tassel turn followed by thunderous applause, cheers and tears for some. Seniors then were escorted to the lawn of the pavilion, where they could reconvene with fellow graduates, family and friends. 

   For many, connecting after the ceremony and taking pictures is the most exciting part of graduation and subsequently the most emotional. “It was  bittersweet knowing I wouldn’t see my senior friends in school anymore, but I was still very proud of their accomplishment nonetheless” Explained Junior Veronica Romero. Despite the melancholy sensation in the air, there was an undeniable wave of inspiration and determination for each graduate’s future. 

   “Now I’m onto the next step; I’ll be playing basketball in college, and I couldn’t be more ready to see what’s next for me” Graduate Edgar Clark shared.

   Although only being a handful of hours, the tradition of graduation is a memory that often lasts forever, giving graduates a final opportunity to share laughs and smiles, celebrating years of hard work with one another before continuing forth.