The day arrived for the Class of 2018 from Adelante High School (AHS) to take center stage and walk their final walk as high school students on Thursday, May 24 at the Ray Fauria Gym. For some, the struggles and challenges were difficult at times but that just made this day mean so much more to them, as well giving them a reason to celebrate.
The ceremony began with a greeting from Adelante High School Principal Rebecca Evans who welcomed the many family and friends that attended. Riverbank High School NJROTC presented the colors and graduate Victoria Meza led the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem.
Evans introduced the AHS staff including faculty, Elizabeth Medeiros, Fred Wood, and Kristi Santos, counselor Norma Ramirez, Teacher in Charge Amber Ryan, Administrative Assistant, Teresa Manriquez, and Campus Monitor, Adolfo Martinez.
The Riverbank Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Daryl Camp, Assistant Superintendent Christine Facella, and Board of Trustees, President Ana Vigil, board members Suzanne Dean, Elizabeth Meza, and Susan Taylor were also in attendance.
Ramirez introduced Valedictorian Selena Martinez and Salutatorian Xena Barnwell that both gave speeches to their fellow graduates and guests.
Telling a story about the Class of 2018 was Ryan that included encouragement, scripture, and congratulations. She reminded them that they had an opportunity to learn and earn their high school diploma and the doors it will open for them in their future for doing so.
Evans presented the class to Camp and he accepted them. He gave recognition and thanks to the parents as well as others that helped the students get to the graduation stage. Touched by a message from a student to the AHS faculty, Camp shared her words at the ceremony. He added that he was extremely proud of the students for their perseverance to overcome their challenges to obtain their diploma.
There were 31 AHS graduates that will soon go out in the world on a new adventure including furthering their education or planning for employment of some kind.
Martinez guided the graduates through the tradition of the moving of their tassels and then the students walked off the stage to the back of the gym where they gathered in a circle and tossed their caps in the air with loud cheers and applause.
