Graduations

Graduation 2020: Ceres High – words from students, principal

Sal Chavez

School Name: Ceres High School

Number of graduates: 331

Valedictorian: Gurmenjit Bahia

Senior Class Gift: Establishment and Donation to a fund for our Electronic Billboard

Ceres High ASB President Eileen Perez gives a speech to her fellow 2020 graduates, which was filmed for their virtual graduation.
Ceres High ASB President Eileen Perez gives a speech to her fellow 2020 graduates, which was filmed for their virtual graduation. Sal Chavez

Words from ASB President Eileen Perez: “Once you enter high school, the most anticipated moment of any freshman would be the very awaited and exciting senior year you hear everyone talk about. Now if you would’ve told freshman Eileen that she would only get half of that most anticipated year in high school, she would’ve definitely told you to shut up. However, here I am during my senior year, sitting at home, in the middle of May, watching Netflix when I should be stressing about finding a dress to wear to graduation. What I will miss most of my senior year is the fact that I won’t be able to see those people that I was so used to seeing everyday for the past four years. We are all going onto different paths now and a lot of us will be moving away to college. It is a very bittersweet thing knowing that those people I used to talk to almost everyday won’t be something I can do anymore. I will miss all those events we did such as homecoming and multicultural week. Most of all, I will miss those friendships I formed over the years with so many amazing people.”

Words from Principal Rita Menezes: “To the Class of 2020: if there’s one thing that we can take away from this experience, it’s that all plans are subject to change. Use times like these as opportunities to be introspective, prioritize, and focus on what matters most. I know it can be scary to be starting this next chapter when so many things are uncertain. The important thing to remember when you face any challenging situation is that there are always things that you can control. Take stock of the situation, make a plan, and take action. Rise above obstacles, and never let the unexpected twists and turns of life keep you from your ultimate goals. Best wishes to each of you!”

Kristin Lam
The Modesto Bee
Kristin Lam is an accountability reporter for The Modesto Bee covering Turlock and Ceres. She previously worked for USA TODAY as a breaking news reporter and graduated with a journalism degree from San Jose State.
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