SVHS Graduation Plans Unchanged

Today's the day that students have been looking forward to all year – in some cases, for years. It’s Graduation Day for SVHS students, marking the end of their secondary education. And for many, the beginning of life in the “real world.”

Even for Principal Dino Battaglini, it’ll be a night to remember – it will be his first as principal at SVHS. “You always remember your first graduation,” he said.

Despite the possibility of rain, the graduation ceremony will still be held at Sonoma’s Arnold Field (151 First St. West). “Unfortunately we don’t have an indoor venue big enough for both students and their parents,” said Maggie Cunningham of the Student Activities office.  “The only change will be a cover over the diploma area.

“It is what it is so we hope for the best,” Cunningham added.

Here sentiments were echoed by Mary Kate Dreyer, chairman of Project Grad, the volunteer parents organization. "We're hoping we're in the middle of a little [weather] pocket," she said. "We're optimistic, but what can you do."

The ceremony will start at 6:30 pm and is expected to be over a little after 8 pm, since this year’s graduating class of 238 is slightly smaller than in previous years.

The welcome speech will be delivered by student Omar Paz. Valedictorian Noah Huyette and Salutatorian Emma McGee will also have the opportunity to address the assembled audience. Diplomas will be handed out by members of the School Board.

Following graduation, the Senior Checkout party or “Grad Night” will take place at the high school, from 9:30 pm until 5:30 am on Saturday morning. Grad Night is put on by Project Grad to give seniors a place to celebrate in a safe environment.

"They have these all over these days,” said Battaglini. “It’s designed for a safe and sober graduation.”

This year's theme for Grad Night is Medieval -- with castles, costumes and dragons, of course. It sees the high school transformed into a “magic land,” according to Cunningham, with decorations, refreshments, interactive games, entertainment and a DJ. There will also be an end-of-night raffle with a variety of prizes including  laptop computers, printers, mini fridges and special events.

One lucky graduating student will win a mint-condition, previously-used car -- a 1998 Cadillac Catera, with only 54,000 miles. The car has been donated by , said an appreciative Dreyer.

About 150 students are expected to attend Grad Night. "It's one of my passions," said Dreyer, who has been volunteering for 11 years and chair for the past 6. "We spend between 30 and $40,000 on Grad Night, that's almost $200 per kid. It's to keep them safe and occupied, not drinking and not driving.

"If we save just one kid's life, don't you think it's worth it?"