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By Mila Besich-Lira
Superior Sun
The SHS Class of 2014 celebrated their graduation on Friday with a fitting ceremony that highlighted the personality of the class and their anticipation for looking into the future. The class of 2014 has been awarded over $220,000 in scholarships. All of the graduates have committed to either attending local community colleges, trade schools or universities. Several have committed to the military with one of their classmates is already attending basic training.
“All ends lead to a new beginning,” said Salutatorian Arial Alonzo. Alonzo highlighted upon many of the memories of her class, she encouraged her classmates to work hard and continue to make memories throughout their lives. “Never give up on anything you set your mind to, and never let anyone bring you down or tell you ‘you cant’. I believe in each of you and know we are all capable of great success,” she said.
“I can tell you it raises my excitement for what is to come in our not so distant future. This is why I have stopped fearing the hurdles we will face in life, because you will never know what good times are, unless you have some kind of struggle,” said Valedictorian Ashley Barreras. Barreras also commented on many of the memories of the class and she also talked about how she came to earn the title of valedictorian for working hard on her classwork, in addition to her 700 hours of community service, participation in school athletics and clubs as well as completing several college courses. She thanked her parents for giving her a strong foundation to work hard, she said there were many weekends when she wanted to just relax, but her parents had her helping with family responsibilities.
The guest speaker for the commencement was Jesse Arroyos. Arroyos is an SHS graduate along with her parents, husband and son, explained principal William Duarte during his introduction of Arroyos. She commented on how well she knew this class, having had the opportunity to be part of their childhood and elementary careers, she has watched them grow into the young adults we see today. Arroyos reminded the graduates to never forget where they came from, because Superior as a community always has and always will be there for them.
Mila Besich is a resident of Superior with two children. She volunteers for many local organizations. She is an experienced fundraiser and event planner for Copper Corridor Economic Development Coalition. She covers some of the area town councils and schools.
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