San Juan Bautista
– In general, high school graduations across the country are
fairly uniform:
”
Pomp and Circumstance
”
plays, students dress in the traditional cap and gown, an
inspirational speech is given, and diplomas are presented.
San Juan Bautista – In general, high school graduations across the country are fairly uniform: “Pomp and Circumstance” plays, students dress in the traditional cap and gown, an inspirational speech is given, and diplomas are presented.
But Anzar High School is far from uniform.
At Friday night’s graduation ceremony, the 76 graduates were recognized not only as the unified class of 2007, but they were also encouraged to stand out as individuals.
Each student walked in – not to “Pomp and Circumstance” – but to their own hand-picked song, giving the students an opportunity to shine (and the parents the chance to take that perfect picture).
Music ranged from the theme to the ’90s television show “The X-Files,” to the song from Disney’s Little Mermaid, “Under the Sea,” to the Kiss song, “Rock and Roll All Nite.”
Many of the students decorated their caps to show off their own personal interest or style. One student had Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle action figures on top of his cap, another had attached skateboard wheels and skated in to the auditorium, and others had adorned their caps with sparkles, peace signs and shout-outs to their parents.
While the event truly evoked a celebratory feel, the ceremony was also a serious recognition of the students and their efforts.
“My heart swells with pride as I look at (the graduates),” Anzar Principal Charlene McKowen said. “Your pride in these accomplishments supersedes a piece of paper.”
McKowen pointed out that all of the graduates had fulfilled the requirements to enter a four-year university. Of the 76 students, 12 were the first in their direct families to graduate, and 22 will be the first to go to college.
Students were addressed not only on their future successes but also on the importance of pursuing happiness.
“Set your goals high, but enjoy each step of the way to your dream,” said Nori Murakami, who served as a senior adviser. “Enjoy this life.”
The students were also encouraged to make sure they built strong communities like the one they had at Anzar High School.
“High school graduation is a celebration of the transition from childhood to adulthood,” said Dan Faurot-Daniels, who served as a senior adviser. “As you go out in your post-graduate plans, be sure to build a strong support network.”
After the ceremony, students hugged each other in the warm evening sun. Maikol Grundhoefer said he was happy and excited to have successfully graduated. He plans to attend Gavilan College where he will study nursing in the fall.
“(Graduating) is a big weight off my back. But I’ll continue working in the future to succeed more,” Grundhoefer said.
Although the ceremony was far from typical, many of the families who came out to see the graduation said they enjoyed the fact that it was different.
“It was a great ceremony, and something we didn’t expect but it was wonderful,” said Hollister resident Claire Greer, who was there watching his granddaughter Delaina Greer graduate. “I’m very proud – ‘course I always knew she would make it – but I’m still proud.”
