The moment almost every senior at Dos Palos High School has been waiting for since kindergarten finally arrived: graduation. Graduation is an emotional celebration, as it is not just another school day, but a day in which many will part ways.
High school is about figuring out your interests and what you want to pursue in life, alongside learning about the world and how it works. Many have worked hard over the years to graduate with honors, outstanding grades, cords that recognize their dedication and hard work, trophies, medals and much more.
DPHS held its senior graduation for the Class of 2026 on June 4, at the Ike Frankian Field at Bill Hume Stadium. The bleachers were full of proud parents, who were able to witness their children walk the stage and earn their high school diplomas.
All the years of dedication, learning and growth of every senior led to graduation. The diploma is significant, as it is the physical embodiment of everyone’s hard work over the course of years and the weight of their achievements.
Those who go above and beyond during their high school career become valedictorian and salutatorian. These spots are incredibly competitive, as it relies on specific criteria, such as GPA and character.
Even the slightest difference, such as having a single B, can be the difference between valedictorian and salutatorian. Mara Torres, a senior at DPHS, was the valedictorian for the Class of 2026. Mara took part in many sports, such as tennis, track and cross country, not including her academic achievements.
This accomplished young woman delivered an incredibly curated and heartfelt speech during graduation. Her speech detailed her high school experience, struggles and perseverance.
She thanked her educators for playing a role in her career choice, helping her persevere through the hard times and helping her accomplish her goal of being able to attend one of the top public universities in California, UC Berkeley.
During her speech, Torres said, “We are unstoppable and will achieve anything we set our minds to as we pursue future careers and enter different fields of study. Nothing has the power to hold you back, except one thing. Yourself.
“You have the power to decide what you will make out of yourself and nobody or anything else. I believe in every single one of you, and I am confident everyone will achieve their greatest dreams as we enter the world as high school graduates and adults.”
Alongside the valedictorian were two salutatorians: Gabe Cabrera and Jace McLaughlin. Their speeches were also emotional and discussed the great and unexpected memories made throughout high school, as well as situations that came with their own struggles and perseverance.
The end of graduation was an emotional whirlwind. Friends hugged each other, family members took pictures with their loved ones, friends celebrated the end of high school, and many people cried.
High school is an experience that helps individuals build their character. They prepare themselves for the world, build friendships and connections and finally venture into the world once they graduate.
