KING CITY — King City High School Class of 2019 took the field at the Mustangs stadium for the final time Saturday morning for its commencement ceremony, during which 189 seniors tossed their caps in the air in celebration of their graduation.
Family, friends, teachers and classmates watched and cheered from the stands as the seniors celebrated their last day of high school. Speeches were given by seniors Brianna Hernandez, class president; Karina Aguirre, salutatorian; and Samuel Rivera, valedictorian.
“So much has changed, but now that we are graduating and leaving our high school years behind, our lives will change so much more,” Rivera said. “However, moving forward is a part of life and helps us remember to make the best of the time that we have in any given place.”
Rivera, who was also recognized with the National Merit Award, told his fellow graduates that it is now time for them to become not only adults, but also a more influential part of society.
“Whether your next step is the workforce, college, the military, parenthood or whatever you have in store for yourself, we need to accept the change in our lives that comes from having a greater responsibility in society,” he said. “It is our turn to step up and contribute to the world, the same way former generations have done before us.”
The Class of 2019’s motto states, “It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be,” a quote by Albus Dumbledore from “Harry Potter.” The class song is “Walking in the Wind” by One Direction.
The June 1 program also featured senior Laura Villagrana, who sang the National Anthem, and the King City High School Military Science Color Guard, which presented the flags. The commencement welcome address was given by King City High School Principal Janet Sanchez-Matos.
“As your principal and as your ‘school mom,’ I hope that we, your teachers, have laid a solid foundation, which will guide you, and one that you will build upon as you set off on your next journey in life,” Sanchez-Matos said. “… I wish each and every one of you nothing but the best. May all your dreams and wishes come true, and may you grow and blossom to be productive, self-sufficient, respectable adults.”
Sanchez-Matos then offered some words of advice to the graduates.
“Think before you act, for all your actions have consequences,” she said. “In life, when choosing a job or a career, do what you love and love what you do. Whatever you decide to do in life, make sure it brings you happiness. Never quit. Be strong. Life is what you make of it. Lift up your faces, smile and face the world.”
__________
View more photos in the South County Graduation Section in the June 12 issue.
