Donning big smiles along with their burgundy-colored caps and gowns, Citrus High School's Class of 2025 graduating candidates made their way down the campus court-yard Thursday to the music of Sir Edward Elga's "Pomp and Circumstance" recorded by the Porterville High School Panther Band.
Along the way, loud applause and cheering echoed around them as family and friends gathered to commemorate the end of their students' high school experience while celebrating the beginning of a new season in their lives.
The Placing of Colors by the Porterville Military Academy 13th Brigade preceded CHS' Dean of Counseling Gerardo Abrica leading the Pledge of Allegiance.
A welcome by CHS' Principal Apolinar Marroquin followed, with him speaking in English and in Spanish throughout the program. He continued with the introduction of distinguished guests -- Porterville Unified School District Superintendent Nate Nelson, Assistant Superintendent Martha Steumky, Board President Lillian Durbin and Board Member Pedro Martinez.
"Today we celebrate not only our Citrus graduates, but all the loved ones who helped them reach this proud milestone," Marroquin said before thanking parents, family members and friends for their unwavering love and encouragement which made the day possible.
Marroquin also talked of the beautiful tradition Citrus has of having the graduates facing their families during the ceremony.
"This simple yet powerful gesture reminds us of who helped guide them to this moment and who will continue to support them as they journey forward," Marroquin said.
Marroquin also thanked his dedicated Citrus staff for their heroic passion, care and commitment to shaping the lives of the students.
"Not many Marvel characters would choose to save grumpy teenagers - but you do, every single day. You save lives by giving hope. Your superpower is your heart. We honor you tonight."
He continued by addressing the students.
"Graduates, you did it. Tonight is your celebration," Marroquin said, stating they worked hard, stayed focused, and believed in themselves.
"Through challenges, you've persevered, and now you stand ready to take on the world. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you."
"On behalf of the entire Citrus staff, we love you, we believe in you, and we know your future is bright. Keep reaching, keep growing and continue making your families, and yourselves, proud. Congratulations, Class of 2025."
During the evening three students, Caleb Plunk, Adrian Corona and Devin Longoria, were honored with scholarships and awards.
Additionally, the Tule River Tribal Council honored and awarded two students, Wa'Hessit Yaxkin Chumacero and Conway Marcus Mallory, with ceremonial blankets and scholarships.
The introduction of the individual graduates prompted many in the audience to shout out praises to their loved one as they were called forward. CHS Certified Staff shared comments from the students, talked of where they were heading next, and shared short attributes of each one, which had the audience clapping, crying and laughing as they listened as he or she walked forward to stand by their teacher, before being presented with their diploma by Durbin and Martinez.
Marroquin returned to the podium to present the Class of 2025 to the honored guests, family and friends.
"Graduates, you may now move your tassel from the right side to the left side," Marroquin said. "Congratulations."
Immediately the loud shouts of happiness and cheering erupted as the Class of 2025 walked away to the loud tune of "Celebration" by Kool and the Gang.
And as they found their respective families and friends, they were greeted with smiles, hugs, kisses and the sound of cameras taking photographs.
Citrus graduate Joel Angel Flores was promptly surrounded by his big family - all of whom, from grandparents to little niece, wore matching t-shirts commemorating the dual graduations, his and his brother Vincent Flores from Porterville College a few days prior.
"It's very exciting for us," said his father Jessie Flores, adding he worked hard and the family was honored.
His mother, Monica Flores, pointed out the back of the shirts had two logos - Porterville College Pirates and the Citrus High School Cougars - in honor of both sons graduating this year.
Several families indicated they were a little concerned at times about whether or not their graduates would make it, and all said they were thankful for the school, principal and staff who made the dream come true - not only for the student, but also for the family.