Gilroy Unified School District’s graduating class proved resilient and dedicated this summer.
South County Youth Task Force coordinator and keynote speaker Bernice Aguilera offered that recognition to the 18 graduating students Aug. 8 in the district board room.
“Whatever it is you want to do, dream big, and if you really want it, get it,” Aguilera said. “Whether it’s college, starting your own business—whatever it is—play big in the game of life.”
The graduation ceremony—organized by Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services Marilyn Ayala—kicked off with a welcome and introductions from District Superintendent Deborah Flores, who recognized parents, friends, teachers, administrators and others who played a role in students’ success.
During her keynote speech, Aguilera congratulated students and said high school graduation was “by far the hardest achievement” in her life so far.
“That proves to me that you have resiliency and dedication,” Aguilera said. “That takes so much courage.”
Aguilera leads a group that includes Flores, who said she’s proud to participate as part of a very positive, energetic group of people committed to making a difference to community youth, fostering positive activities, opportunities and support while concurrently reducing gang activity.
“It’s a wonderful group. We’re really pleased to have (Aguilera) here to speak to you this evening,” Flores said.
In sharing her personal success story with students, Aguilera recounted how she went on to earn honors with a much higher grade point average in college, securing a bachelor’s degree.
“I had to go to night school. I had to go to summer school. I had to take eight classes to graduate from high school, but I did it,” Aguilera said. “It doesn’t matter how you get there.”
Growing up in a San Jose area recognized as a hood, not knowing what she wanted to do: It was hard, Aguilera said.
“But you are graduating right now. That proves to me that you have resiliency and dedication,” she said.
Aguilera said she wants to see each and every one of the students achieve great things and come back to share stories with their families about all the challenges and fears they overcame.
Like Nelson Mandela said, “Be that change you wish to see in this world,” Aguilera said.
“It all starts with you,” Aguilera said. “Each one of us is a world … we’re colorful, so be sure to use (those talents)—and congratulations.”
Flores reminded students about the importance of the milestone, representing 13 years or more of hard work and mastery of skills and subjects needed to graduate.
“Graduation from high school is one of those moments in life you’ll remember for the rest of your life,” Flores said. “It’s a major milestone that opens the door to the next phase of your lives.”
Flores applauded students for their persistence, for not giving up and achieving success with the diploma. With a high school diploma in-hand, students have many choices available, she said.
Both speakers emphasized how in addition to meeting high school exit examination, high school and 80 hours of community service requirements, students are invited to share the skills learned during community service to help the community.
“It is our hope that you will maximize opportunities now available to you,” Flores said. “Set your sights high, and dream big. Pursue a career path that excites you.”
Flores offered a quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, who said, “”The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.'”
Then it was the moment they all had been waiting for—presentation of diplomas with Flores, district board vice-president James Pace and district board member Jaime Rosso. Also recognized during the event were district staff and administrators who played a role in students’ success including Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Alvaro Meza, Student Services Executive Director Barbara Brown, Human Resources Director Kim Filice, Curriculum and Instruction Director Kathleen Bierman; as well as Mt. Madonna Continuation High School Principal Jennifer Del Bono, Gilroy High School Principal Marco Sanchez and Christopher High School Principal Paul Winslow.
For more information, visit gusd.k12.ca.us/.
