Proud family and friends gathered at the Student Activities Complex (SAC) II on Aug. 19 to celebrate the accomplishments of 21 graduates from the Socorro Independent School District’s Class of 2025, who fulfilled their graduation requirements over the summer.
Among them was Alina Jacquez, who graduated from Americas High School. She was excited to earn her diploma and looked forward to starting a new chapter in her life. She planned to attend El Paso Community College to study ultrasound technology or purse a career with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Jacquez did not regret graduating in the summer and said that she and her fellow graduates deserved to be recognized for their achievements.
“This is your moment,” Jacquez said. “Even if it's a little bit later than everybody else, you still have the spotlight on you. You know you did everything you could to get here, and that's all that matters. Everybody's future is different, so there's clearly a bigger future ahead for everybody.”
The graduates were from the district’s six comprehensive high schools and Options High School. SISD Superintendent James Vasquez reminded the graduates that while their journey may not have always been easy, their belief in themselves and the support from SISD faculty and staff helped them reach this milestone.
“Each of you has shown remarkable perseverance and grit and determination,” Vasquez said. “You've overcome challenges, embraced opportunities, and grown into confident, capable young adults. You are ready for college, career, military service, or whatever path you choose to pursue.”
Zackeri Moncayo, a graduate from El Dorado High School, was grateful for the support he received from his family and friends while he attended summer school. His next chapter involves him attending EPCC to become a mechanic.
“My family, I did it for them, and I did it for myself because I know that at the end of the day I got to show up, especially for my parents because they love me, and they put me on this earth,” Moncayo said.
His mom, Jennifer Jimenez, became emotional as she congratulated her son after the ceremony.
“I supported him every minute, every second, every day. He makes me so proud,” a tearful Jimenez said.