Skyline Gila River Promotions bring joy for families
June 2, 2023
GRIN Staff
Gila River Indian News
On May 12, The Community’s Skyline Gila River High School commemorated the 23 high school graduates at their 8th Annual Graduation Ceremony in Chandler.
Before the start of the graduation ceremony, the school’s gymnasium was filled with family and loved ones, with standing room only. The commencement program included impactful speeches and served as a reminder of how exceptional their graduates are.
As graduates sat on stage, the staff praised the tireless actions and resilience the class of 2023 demonstrated over the last four years.
“This class of students are servants, they were always willing to jump up and say ‘I’ll help, I’ll do it,’” said Skyline Gila River High School Principal Keith Brown. “The other thing I know is that they’re very hardworking. They’re always ready to do a little more for their grades or school activities, and that’s a great trait to have as they go forward in life,” said Brown.
“After tonight, always remember to carry yourselves with pride and dignity of who you are and where you come from,” said Salutatorian Josephine P. Menard during her remarks.
In closing, she issued some personal challenges for her classmates as they closed this chapter of their lives. “I dare you to never stop learning, strive to be the best in all that you do, to change someone’s life for the better, and finally, I dare you to challenge others and be the encouragement that reminds others of their potential,” said Menard.
And before the presentation of diplomas, 2023 valedictorian Latai Charles reflected on their collective experiences. “Where there is no struggle, there is no strength, and I know I wouldn’t be here as valedictorian without my own struggles,” said Charles. “So many of us struggle and face challenges without realizing the value of it and making it part of our journey and how much power they hold in shaping your life.”
During his speech, Charles acknowledged the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their high school experience. However, he encouraged everyone to view it as an opportunity to develop resilience for the future challenges they may face as adults.
“You may fail but fall still fighting. Don’t give up whatever you do. Eyes front, head high to the finish, see it through, see it through,” said Charles, citing the poem “See it Through” by Edgar Albert Guest in her closing.
Eighth Grade Promotion
Skyline Gila River held a promotion ceremony for 28 eighth-graders at 10 a.m. May 17 in the school gymnasium. Students were dressed in their best formal attire as proud parents assembled to watch them receive their certificates.
The ceremony began with an invocation led by student Isiah Laws followed by the Pledge of Allegiance recited by SGR students Jozette Biarco, Remyni Molina, Joshua Setoyant and Jayme Webb-Holguin. Next, Skyline Gila River Vice Principal Dr. Pamela Chandler delivered a welcoming speech to guests and students followed by words of encouragement from Principal Keith Brown.
“To our wonderful eighth-grade students, today marks a special day in your academic journey,” announced Dr. Chandler to the class. “You have worked hard, persevered through challenges and demonstrated commitment to learning. As you prepare to move on to high school, know that your hard work and dedication will serve you well in all that you do.”
Brown added, “We wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for the effort of all the parents and family members who have helped our students, as well as our teachers who have gotten our students here.”
He also explained the “ACE” acronym he created for students: “A” represents attitude, “C” represents character and “E” represents effort.
According to Brown, attitude is crucial because it’s like a flat tire —if it’s not changed, the vehicle won’t go anywhere. Having character means completing tasks even when no one can witness them. Finally, effort is essential because it’s the key to achieving goals.
During Brown’s remarks, he encouraged students to embrace their next moments in education. After the certificates were presented, parents smiled as students left ready to start high school.
