GALT, CA (MPG) - On the evening of June 2, the Galt High School Class of 2025 threw caps in the air to celebrate the milestone of completing four years of diligent work. 

Galt High Principal Kellie Beck began the ceremony by welcoming graduates, faculty, family and friends who were present to celebrate at Warrior Stadium. Beck reminded graduates in her opening speech that although the buildings and people around them may change, they should remember that they are forever Warriors. 

“The time together goes by so fast, so my advice tonight is to take it all in just like every special moment walking across the stage, take your time and I can’t wait to meet you here in the middle to hand you your diploma and wish you good luck,” said Beck. 

Next, seniors Grace Phillips and Genesis Cea were invited to the stage to honor their commitment to serving the country by enlisting in the armed forces after graduation. 

Cea took a moment to recognize those who have served in the military and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Philips and Cea. The National Anthem followed next, which was sung by senior Rosie Roberts. 

Seniors Roberts and Jazmin Tinoco Paredes then approached the podium to formally welcome their fellow Class of 2025 peers.  

“This night is much more than just a ceremony. It’s a celebration of years of hard work, growth, challenges and unforgettable memories,” said Roberts. 

“I cherish the empathy and loyalty of the friends I’ve made and the amazing teachers who have educated, advised and provided me with great opportunities. Thank you, fellow Warriors, for helping me write this part of our story.”

Paredes welcomed attendees in Spanish and said, “This marks the end of a chapter that we have written together. Although this feels like we have reached the last page, the reality is that this is only the beginning of a new story in our lives that will be filled with new adventures and possibilities.”

Social science and AVID teacher Rosella Rowilson then introduced salutatorian Cindy Jaramillo. Rowilson noted that Jaramillo exemplifies what it means to be a Warrior of being a hard-working individual, having worked 24 hours a week at Subway while maintaining a 4.6 GPA.  

“Life has felt like a blur since I started working. I never saw myself as someone intelligent, never scored perfectly and struggled several times in class,” said Jaramillo. 

“But as I brainstormed my speech, I have come to realize that I got here by giving it my all. … Our hardships shape us, but they do not define who we are and what we can be.” 

Galt High faculty recognized nine students with the Red and White Warrior G Award for their outstanding display of kindness, courage, honesty and compassion toward others: Gloria Arana, Gael Rodriguez Gonzalez, Ella Brooke Ipson, Levi John McDonald, Izaac Alexander Robledo, Daniel Logan Rose, Emilyann E. Sheldon, Noah William Vershoor-Barron and Molly Lynn Wood. 

Spanish teacher Franki Zelny introduced valedictorian Alanna Juarez to speak about her high school experience and wish her fellow graduates good luck. Zelny said that she has seen Juarez grow to become an inspiration to her peers and teachers alike, having completed her high school education with a 4.25 GPA.  

“For those who locked in, you likely followed Ms. Downing’s advice of ‘Hair back, aprons on, hands washed.’ Every day, you woke up, got dressed, went to school and did your work, which is why we are all here today,” said Juarez. 

Juarez continued with the theme of culinary class and tied it to why graduates should look forward to the future.

“Whether we were close or just shared a few classes, we all spent years in the same kitchen: juggling the heat, following recipes we didn’t always understand. … It wasn’t always easy, but we made it to the final course and it’s one worth savoring,” Juarez said. 

“Good luck out there. Whatever’s next, I hope you find something that makes you want to jump out of bed and fire up the stove.”