Class of 2020: Liberty High School-Madera
Liberty High School 2020 Graduation speech
Principal’s note
Good Evening Students, Parents, distinguished guests and community members. Welcome to the Liberty High School Commencement Ceremony for the class of 2020. Before we begin, I would like to thank our counselors Mr. Albert Pando and Dr. Michael Grossman for their dedication to our students and all of their hard work to make this ceremony possible. A special thanks to our office staff Mrs. Rosa, Mrs. Rodriguez and Mrs. Brauer for their above and beyond performance in helping us with this event. Thanks to my colleagues Mrs. Osborn, Mr. Chance, Mr. Butler and Mr. Nolte. Thank you to Mr. Tony Hernandez and the custodial staff for getting the site ready. Thanks to the GVUSD board of trustees, Superintendent Wallace and the entire district staff for their ongoing support. Also a special thank you to the incredible teaching staff of Liberty High School who has reminded me of how strong and resilient educators can be during a time of crisis.
The Class of 2020 will be one to be remembered as we have had to deal with a pandemic that has closed the school buildings and brought a sudden end to the school year. While we have reflected as to what could have been or what we could have accomplished these last few months, I ask that you do not live with regret. Instead I ask that you focus on what was accomplished prior to this pandemic. Many of you are walking away from LHS as Academic or Athletic standouts, having won awards, scholarships and championships. We have consistently pushed ourselves out of our own comfort zones in pursuit of excellence. We have shown no fear and therefore should show no regret.
The Class of 2020 has Challenged themselves to be the best in Academics and Athletics so that the rest of the Valley would take note of what is happening in the Ranchos. J.K. Rowling has said, “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all — in which case, you fail by default.” In 2005 our community took a chance and did something that had never been done before when they created Golden Valley. Our very existence is an example that we will not let fear control our hearts. Instead we will stand, United As One, and we will seize opportunities to make an impact; to make a difference.
To the class of 2020 I am challenging all of you to continue your pursuit of excellence. I ask that you continue to overcome and persevere. Many of you came into this world post 9/11 and now you enter adulthood in another historic period. You will continue to face additional challenges along the way. But rest assured you can and will overcome these obstacles just as you have before. This senior class more than any other, embodies the spirit and passion of our community. We not only persevere, we thrive, we succeed where others fail. We move forward as one of the highest performing High Schools in Madera County. League Championships once were a goal, However, our expectations have changed from simply competing in league to competing for Valley Championships. In 2005 we celebrated our first senior class. Fast forward to 2020 and our Athletic program celebrates our 24th Central Section Championship as Coach Puma and our wrestling team bring home the D IV title.
You are now leaving LHS, but I want you to know that you will not travel alone. This pandemic has shown everyone what it means to be a part of this community. While other cities and counties may panic, the Madera Ranchos remains galvanized in support of our students and our seniors. Our student body has held on strong as we waited for an opportunity, a chance to reopen and regain a sense of normalcy. You joined us in conference calls and even spoke up at board meetings to express your concerns about the school closure. This senior class pushed me to carry on schooling outside of the school walls. Pushed me to find a way to hold a graduation ceremony and not give up hope. You have inspired the entire administration team with your passion and dedication for Liberty High School. In the words of Simon Sinek, “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” To my students, the Class of 2020, I am proud to say that you are leaders.
As you embark on your journey my hope is that you will find your own path to success and that your personal adventure will be one that brings great pride and satisfaction to you and your families. The class of 2020 will be remembered for years to come and rest assured the LHS and the Madera Ranchos community will always stand with you.
Felipe Piedra
This story was originally published June 17, 2020 at 12:00 AM.