BIGGS, CA (MPG) – The stage was set, beautifully, for the Biggs High School Class of 2021, to make their grand entrance and even grander exit as they commenced Graduation!

As guests took to the stands of the very lovely Biggs High School stadium, they did so to the sound of voice recordings of each of the 45 graduates addressing their parents, teachers and more, thanking them for their support and love throughout their scholastic journey. Banners lined both sides of the stage featuring the graduates’ photos and meaningful allegiances, like sports, cheer, FFA or more. The banners had originally hung down Biggs’ B street the months prior to graduation to honor each of the students’ accomplishments.

After the seniors made their way to their graduation stage, the crowd and graduates were welcomed in both English (Emma Ceballos) and Spanish (Jared Munanui). What came next was a complete tearjerker.

A tradition at BHS, Aurora Little and Anthony Velaquez presided over the “flowers to parents” ceremony– A highly sentimental and emotional moment for many in the crowd. At this time, graduates rose and descended from their stage and made their ways into the bleachers to present their parents flowers and express their gratitude.

The moving tribute to their parents cleared the way for graduates to get down to the business of graduating! The history of the class of 2021 was given by Megan Shelton and Grace Ramos. It was then the class Salutatorians Jackie Gonzalez and Calixtro Navarro gave their inspiring speeches, followed by Valedictorian Elaine Vera. Vera started out her speech with an additional thank you to her parents and the sacrifices they made to get her to this point, “I am standing here as valedictorian in honor of not only my parents’ legacy, but also every single other Hispanic and immigrant that shares a common story.” Her pride in her heritage, her family, herself, and her classmates were evident.

Next students were recognized for multiple awards, read a congratulatory letter to them penned by President Joe Biden, and heard from both Principal Tyler Rutledge and Superintendent Doug Kaelin.

Finally, the time came for each student to receive their diploma. As the graduation procession culminated, a round of congratulations to the Class of 2021 was celebrated by all in attendance, with caps and streamers flying. Graduates met their families and friends down on the football field to celebrate the conclusion of one chapter, and the big beginning of the next.