San Benito High School
High school graduation is a bittersweet rite of passage for most seniors: a moment when they leave their childhood and embark on the next section of their lives.
San Benito High School recognized its 509 graduating seniors at Thursday’s commencement ceremony. The students, cloaked in red or white graduation gowns, were a mass of energy and excitement. They cheered on their classmates and friends, some of whom performed or spoke and others who were acknowledged for their academic or athletic achievements.
While much of the event was marked with excitement, many of the students did take time to think about what graduating really meant.
“It feels like a lot of pressure’s off, but it’s a mixed feeling,” said Mitch Ranalli, 17, after receiving his diploma. “I’m glad I’m done, but I’m sad because I’m going to miss my friends and the relationships I’ve made.”
At the ceremony, family, friends and members of the community came out to show their support for the newest class of ‘Baler alumni.
Anzar High School
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 also were encouraged to stand out as individuals.
Each student walked in – not to “Pomp and Circumstance” – but to their own hand-picked song, giving them an opportunity to shine.
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.”
“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.”
San Andreas School
The San Andreas class of 2007 transferred their yellow tassels from the right side of their graduation caps to the left, while the audience whooped and applauded and camera flashes went off.
They were officially high school graduates, ready to take their next step into the adult world.
San Andreas Continuation High School honored 68 seniors at its graduation ceremony Wednesday. The future plans for the students varied: Some have set their sights on college, and others on careers or the army. But regardless of their futures, receiving their diplomas marked an important moment in the students’ lives.
Before the ceremony, the students lined up and chatted excitedly about their plans.
“I’m happy and excited and nervous,” said Michelle DeLeon, 18.
Pinnacles School
Cristine Irish never thought she would graduate from high school.
Neither did Carlos Mayo or Justin Lucas, or most of the students who were honored as the Pinnacles Community School graduating class of 2007.
“I never thought I’d be here, but I’m proud to be,” said Lucas, 17.
Lucas was among 12 students who graduated from Pinnacles School this year. The students received their diplomas or certificates of completion in front of a small group of their families, friends and teachers during Wednesday morning’s ceremony.
Students at the school, which has a student body of just more than 50, are enrolled after being expelled from other San Benito County schools or serving time in juvenile hall.
“These young people have traveled an incredible path to get here,” said Mike Sanchez, alternative programs director.
