Lynwood Unified celebrated over 50 seniors from Vista, Pathway, Lynwood and Firebaugh high schools who graduated during a small but lively summer commencement ceremony on July 20.
“Today we are not only leaving with a diploma, but we begin our journey to our future goals,” Pathway student Izel Jimenez said. “After today, we are walking out with the opportunity of achieving our dreams.”
Surrounded by excited friends and family, the graduates – clad in their caps and gowns – overcame obstacles and completed their final requirements to walk across the stage and collect their diplomas.
“My message to you is even though we all had a setback, we are here today graduating,” Firebaugh student Bryan Lopez said to his peers. “We are ready to move on to greater things in life. It’s time for you to rise up to your full potential and become the best version of you.”
Lynwood High grad Nashawn Jamar shared the obstacles he faced senior year, including homelessness and the loss of a parent and close friend.
“It was painful, but I did not fold, give in or give up,” he said as he thanked teachers and staff for supporting his journey. “To the class of 2023, remember things will get hard, but when they do, use that as fuel to keep fighting. Never quit no matter the situation or the circumstance, we were born to win!”