An on again off again high school graduation officially took place on Friday, May 22, much to the delight of 100 Denver City High School graduates.
After COIVD-19 hit the middle of March there was doubt that graduation in any form would take place. Through the efforts of DCISD Superintendent Gary Davis, high school principal Rick Martinez, Assistant Principal Beau Rains, Counselors Melisa Dorsett and Kim Dierschke, administrative assistant Esmeralda Rodriquez and many volunteers the one-hour celebration took place with no flaws.
A decision was made to move the exercises from the DAG sports complex to Mustang football stadium in order to adhere to state and federal mandates that included keeping a six-foot distance from each other.
For the first time in graduation history each family was issued assigned seats throughout Mustang Stadium, once again to keep a six-foot distance between different families. Not only did each family have assigned seating each graduate also had assigned seating in chairs on the football field that extended from the 10-yard line to midfield.
After the graduates randomly made their way to their seats to the playing of the traditional Pomp and Circumstance, Kayline Rodriquez came forward to offer the Invocation.
“You’re here, you made it,” Superintendent Gary David said. “Eight weeks ago, we had our doubts this graduation would take place, four weeks ago we could see it taking place with a drive though, and now here we are. On a positive note we have fantastic weather and great facilities. And in spite of the coronavirus we have a good attendance tonight.”
Davis also recognized two of the graduates who were united in marriage earlier that day. “This is a real special day for Karen Ayala and Kenton Duncan. I know most of you think you are here for a graduation, but you’re actually here for the biggest wedding reception in Denver City history.”
Following his introductions, the five highest ranking seniors Litzy Esmerado, Valeria Tenoria, Jorge Ronquillo, Salutatorian Diana Saenz, and Valedictorian Riley Calk, gave their speeches.
All of the speeches reflected on their education career in Denver City as well as thanking family members for the support they have received throughout the years.
