Seniors in the Socorro Independent School District celebrated the completion of their high school journey with a summer commencement ceremony on Aug. 29 at Montwood High School.
The Class of 2023 walked proudly on stage past their school administrators and district representatives with their parents, grandparents, family, and friends cheering them on as they received their high school diplomas.
The graduates were from district’s six comprehensive high schools and Options High School. High school principals led the ceremony, and SISD Board of Trustees President Michael Najera certified the graduating class.
SISD assistant superintendent and former Montwood High School principal Carlos Guerra was happy to see the Class of 2023 receiving their diplomas.
“It’s important for us to continue our tradition of leaving no one behind, and the summer graduation completely exemplifies that,” Guerra said. “Today, we want them to know that we care for them, encourage them as they move on to the next chapter, and let them know that we will be rooting for them as they continue with their lives.”
Options High School graduate Jazmine Garcia said she was thankful for the support she received from the district. She is excited to pursue a career in border patrol.
“Today feels good and is a big relief because I’ve been waiting for my diploma, Garcia said. “I like that it’s at your own pace and am happy that the district had a summer graduation. I felt like I couldn’t make it, but I did.”
The celebration was filled with cheers, group and family photos, and entertainment from the Montwood High School Ram Band and Mariachi Sangre Mexicana.
Fernando Mena’s son, Aiden Mena, graduated from Pebble Hills High School and is planning to become a BMW-certified mechanic. Fernando Mena said he is proud of his son and he was excited to celebrate his accomplishment.
“It came down to whether he was going to graduate or not. He had to do the work, and that’s why I’m proud of him because he tripped a little bit, but then he finished and got it done,” Mena said.