Seventeen graduates from the Socorro Independent School District’s class of 2024 began new chapters in their lives after receiving their high school diplomas at the summer commencement ceremony on Aug. 20 at Montwood High School.
Their achievements were celebrated by family, friends, high school principals, SISD board trustees and Interim Superintendent James P. Vasquez. He encouraged graduates to continue moving forward with the resilience they've demonstrated in earning their diplomas, and to strive for even more success.
“Graduates, I know each one of you has your own personal stories of triumphs and challenges,” Vasquez said. “What you all have in common is a fighting spirit and a determination to succeed and that inspires all of us. I can’t think of a better characteristic to possess.”
The graduates were from the district’s six comprehensive high schools and Options High School. High school principals led the ceremony, and SISD Board of Trustees Vice President Cynthia Ann Najera certified the graduating class.
Before the ceremony, Damian Astorga's counselors hugged and congratulated him. The Montwood High School graduate was happy and surprised to see them. Astorga said that he would have needed another year to graduate if it hadn't been for his counselors' encouragement and the support of his family. He advised other students not to give up so they could achieve their full potential.
“Have your fun, but just get your priorities straight,” said Astorga, who plans to enroll in the Refrigeration and HVAC Technology program at Western Technical Institute. “Do what you (have) to do (to) get it done so you don't have to worry about not making it on time or having to do everything (at the) last minute. Just don't give up; just push yourself because I don't think everyone really realizes what their full potential is, if they just don't give up.”
Aileen Lopez was excited to be the first of her siblings to graduate from high school, and she wanted to set a good example for them. She was grateful to her family for supporting and encouraging her to finish school. She plans to take a year off from school before she attends college to study nursing.
“For me to be able to push through and graduate, I take pride in myself right now,” Lopez said.