GRAND TERRACE>> As the school year comes to an end, students all over are saying good-bye to old friends and preparing to say hello to new ones.
But before the start of summer, students from several local high schools, including Grand Terrace High School, decided to celebrate the end of their time at high school by celebrating with those who are at the start of their academic journey.
Seniors from Grand Terrace high school arrived at Terrace View elementary dressed in graduation attire. After walking the halls and saying their final good-byes, the students addressed the elementary school students, congratulating them on their hard work while expressing appreciation for their own time spent in elementary school.
The event was organized by Terrace View ASB teacher Holli Herrera, with assistance from ASB students.
The students were able to thank their former teachers and provide inspiration to some of the younger students. As the seniors walked through the halls of their old school they high fiving the younger students and singing the Terrace View song, a move that was symbolic given the up and coming graduations.
The first graduate to speak was Jade Aldama. “Get involved,” she told the students. “Join a club or sport, do things. Because you will meet new people, create more memories. Don’t grow up too fast, enjoy every minute of elementary school.”
Among those who attended the event was CJUSD superintendent Jerry Almendarez. Teachers, staff and parents were also present at the event, which they described as being a reminder to them of how important a parents influence can be on a child.
The event was organized by Terrace View ASB teacher Holli Herrera, with assistance from ASB students.
Towards the end of the event, the kindergarten class of 2029 presented the 2017 graduates with lanyards and scrolls with written messages on them. They then congratulated the seniors on what will become their final walk.
Earlier that evening Aldama provided the elementary students with these words: “Don’t grow up to fast. Enjoy every minute of elementary school, treasure your youth and be true to yourself. There’s only one you, and you’re amazing.”
It is the hope that both the seniors and the elementary students at Terrace View seek to live by these words as they continue on with whatever paths they may choose.