More than 20 students from across the Socorro Independent School District received their diplomas on Aug. 19 during the Summer Graduation ceremony at Montwood High School, celebrating their hard work and the district's commitment to their education.
The ceremony recognized graduates from each of SISD's six comprehensive high schools and Options High School, who completed graduation requirements over the summer.
Graduates like Linda Maciel from Socorro High School were honored for their perseverance and achievements.
Maciel was only a few credits short of graduation in June. Rather than giving up, she pushed forward to complete the necessary requirements and earn her diploma.
“It makes me feel proud of myself because at one point I thought I wasn't going to make it, and now that I actually did it, it's just like a dream come true for me,” Maciel said. She plans to attend El Paso Community College and pursue a career in diagnostic ultrasound.
Carlos Guerra, Assistant Superintendent for Secondary Education, said the ceremony is one of the district's most meaningful celebrations. He emphasized that the event demonstrated the district's commitment to being all in for student success.
“We want to make sure that it's a special occasion because it's not just a special occasion for them, but for each one of our campuses, for each one of us in the district, and most importantly for our families who are working tirelessly with us to make sure students graduate,” Guerra said.
During the ceremony, SISD Superintendent James Vasquez praised students for their determination and resilience. He also thanked teachers, counselors, principals and support staff for guiding students throughout their academic careers and recognized families who supported them every step of the way.
"Parents, grandparents, siblings, relatives and friends, thank you for the sacrifices you made, the encouragement that you provided and the belief that you never stopped showing in these graduates," Vasquez said.
Despite challenges, Iker Castillo was determined to graduate from El Dorado High School. Castillo plans to begin his studies at El Paso Community College before transferring to the University of Texas at El Paso to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering.
For Castillo, walking across the stage was a proud moment for him and for his family.
“It feels wonderful because at the end of the day, I still worked hard for this, and I feel like everyone still deserves a chance to walk,” Castillo said.