Schools
Photo Gallery: Monte Vista High School Graduation
About 400 seniors were awarded their diplomas during the school's 50th commencement ceremony on Thursday night.
A momentous day for about 400 seniors was a milestone night for as diplomas were awarded Thursday night at the school's 50th commencement. Principal Randy Montesanto explained that Grossmont College, which also turned 50 this year, originally was housed at the same campus.
A packed stadium filled with family and friends cheered as senior Jeremiah Gaddy sang a soulful rendition of the national anthem. Salutatorian Haley Thiltgen and valedictorian Emmanuel Palomo, who has a 4.60 GPA, shared memories with the graduates and teachers.
Winners of the highest honor at the school, the Golden Crown, were Alexis Cabarga, Sandra Chavez, Alise Dongo, Jennifer Lee, Eric Marxen, Aija Morrison and Arturo Mullins. The Monarch honor choir and the Monte Vista Symphonic Band performed.