001Sorry. Where are you? Whatever. It's time. What is it? Just Oh, Stop. our guest high school from the class of 2026. At this time, I ask you to please rise for the pledge of allegiance and remain standing for singing of the national anthem from the house assemb will will present The color is ready. Begin. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. That's Maybe This is not Thank you. Did you get it? All right. Once again, I served as the senior class president for the 2020 2026 school year. Ever since I joined ASB birth to seventh grade, it has been a dream of mine to become senior class president. This year, I
002accomplished that dream. As your senior class president, I made it my top priority to make our senior year the most memorable year of high school. From planning fundraisers like the senior car wash and SOA senior to organizing events such as senior sunrise, senior bonfire, senior splash in, senior picnic with in-n-out, and senior spirit week. I hope I was able to bring all of you joy and unforgettable memories throughout this school year. Having the privilege of serving this class has allowed has allowed me to see just how much heart the class of six has. I've watched students step up as leaders, support their friends, and come together to create an incredible school community. The best part about our class isn't any single accomplishment. It's the way we've always been there for one another. It feels like
003Yesterday we were walking onto campus as nervous eighth graders coming back from a year and a half of co. We wore a mask, try to figure out where our classes were and wondered what middle and high school is going to be like. And now here we are sitting together one last time as the graduating class of 2026. One thing that makes our class so special is the spirit week brought to Belfar. From rallies and spirit weeks to football games, dances, school events, and everything in between, we found what it means to be proud Buccaneers. No matter what is happening, our class always found a way to show up, support one another, and make memories together. We all have our favorite memories from high school. But one of mine was we started a beautiful tradition, the
004ship student section. With the help of one of my closest friends, Angel Bazison, and others, we worked to school year back to our football games. Ever since I came to Belar, I felt like our games were missing my energy and I wanted to help change that. Being able to make our football games more lively, exciting, and memorable is something I will never forget. Our goal was simple. Support our amazing football team while giving students a chance to live in the moment, have fun, and create memories. I hope we accomplish that. When we look back on these last six years, we remember the big moments, but We also remember the small moments. We remember laughing with our friends before class, stressing over assignments due at 11:59, taking pictures at school events, and making memories we didn't
005realize will become some of our favorites. Those everyday moments are what made BFA feel like home. We learned that leadership isn't just about holding a title. It's about helping others, showing kindness, and making people feel like they belong. They're the things that truly make a difference and they're le lessons I hope we all carry with us after today. As we move on to college, careers, the military, trade schools, or wherever life takes us next, I hope we continue to get involved, take chances, and believe in ourselves. We are capable of so much more than we realize. Before I thank my family, I want to recognize where my story began. My parents are from Fastano, Mexico, and came to the United States in search of better opportunities for our family. They worked incredibly hard and make
006many made many, many sacrifices so that my siblings and I could have opportunities they never had. Their determination and resilience have shaped who I am today and everything I have accomplished, including standing here as your senior class president is possible because of them. Before I end my speech, I want to thank everyone who has supported me. Whether it was throughout my entire life these last few years or even the past few months. I also want to thank the rest of my family who are here supporting me today. My siblings Julie, Jesse, and Junior, and my boyfriend Ethan and his amazing family. Thanks for your constant love and encouragement and support. And to my KV3 friend, you guys mean more to me than you know. You made my senior year unforgettable and I will forever cherish
007the memories we've made together. Whether it was our football games, senior events, or random hangouts. I love each and every one of you so much. And lastly, for the class of 2026, thank you for the countless memories, the laughter, the school spirit, and the friendships. Thank you for making these last six years unforgettable. Today isn't just the end of high school. It's the beginning of a brand new chapter. So, be proud of everything you've accomplished. Be excited for everything that's ahead. Don't be afraid to try new things, take chances, and never forget where you where you came from. Remember, once a buck, always a buck. Congratulations, class of 2026. Thank you, Jennifer. It's my pleasure to welcome our honored guests here with us this evening. Representing the Belfflower Unified School District, Board of Education, board
008president, Mrs. Myra Gaza, Board Vice President, Mr. Brad Critfield, Board Clerk, Mrs. Marina Centron, board member, Mrs. Amy Stewart, and board member, Mrs. Reita Armstrong, representing the district administration, superintendent of schools, Dr. Aaron Simon. Representing the city of Bellflower, Bellflower Mayor Sunny Santa Enz. Representing the Bellflower High School administration are Assistant Principal Mrs. Britney Gasper, assistant principal Mrs. Ruby Gonzalez, assistant principal Mr. Alexander Rodriguez, and assistant principal Mr. Michael Rooks. Our high school counseling staff, Miss Lauren Conte, Miss Anna Fujioto, Mrs. Michelle Pedes, and Mrs. Carla Trip. Middle school counselors, Dr. Giovanni Flores and Mrs. Yina Yun, college and career counselor, Miss Melissa Compost, and wellness counselor, Miss Ashley Howard. Joining us this evening to celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates are many members of the dedicated Belfflower High School teaching staff. Their guidance, encouragement,
009and commitment have played an important role in our students success. Teachers, please stand so that we may recognize and applaud your outstanding service and unwavering dedication to our students. To extend a special thank you to our band director, Mr. Omar Vana and the Belfflower High School band for providing the beautiful processional music this evening for the ceremony. We would also like to we would also like to recognize Mr. J. Shu, director of vocal music, for his leadership and dedication in preparing the talent student voices that we will hear that make tonight's celebration even more memorable. Good evening and welcome. My name is Jessica Cummings and I am honored to serve as the principal of Belfflower Middle and High School. It is a privilege to join you this evening as we celebrate the accomplishments of the
010class of 2026. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to our board of education, superintendent Dr. Simon, our dedicated faculty and staff, and the families and friends gathered here tonight. Your encouragement, support, and the commitment have helped guide our students to this important milestone. Later this evening, the members of the class of 2026 will cross across this stage to receive their diplomas, marking the culmination of years of learning, growth, perseverance, and achievement. Each diploma represents countless hours of hard work, determination in the face of challenges, and unwavering commitment to reaching their goals. This is a moment of tremendous pride, not only for our graduates, but also for everyone who has supported them along the way. Tonight, we celebrate their accomplishments, honor their journey, and look forward to the excitement and the opportunities and successes
011that await them in the future. I am truly honored to be a part of this celebration. When these students transition from elementary school, their promotion was unlike any before them. Because of the circumstances at the time, they experienced a drive-thru promotion that carried them into Belfflower Middle and High School without the traditional celebration that they deserved. There were no handshakes, no hugs, no large gatherings of family and friends to mark their achievement. Tonight, that comes full circle. We are able to gather together in person to honor their hard work and their dedication to share handshakes and hugs and celebrate this milestone surrounded by the people who supported them and the resilience that they have shown throughout their educational experience. Tonight is also a time for our students to reflect on those who have made an
012impact on their education and their lives. their teachers who have challenged them, their counselors who have guided them throughout their school years, their parents and family members who gave their time, encouragement, and support, and their friends and classmates who stood beside them along the way. After tonight's ceremonies, our graduates will head down many different paths. Some of you are off to college, others will enter the workforce, and some will answer the call to serve in the military. Whatever path you choose, know that you leave here with the knowledge and skills and experiences that have prepared you for the opportunities ahead. Seniors, we encourage you to take in all of the excitement, tradition, and celebration this evening. And enjoy this milestone that you've worked so hard to achieve and so richly deserve. Tonight's ceremony marks a
013major turning point in your lives. And I hope that you cherish every moment. After tonight, you will no longer be high school students. You will be high school graduates ready to begin the next chapters of your lives. Congratulations to the class of 2026. We are incredibly proud of you. I would like to invite ASB co-president Zulea Castro to the podium. Good evening, honored guests, family, staff, faculty, teachers, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2026. For those of you who do not know me, my name is Zulma Castro. For those of you who only know me as Zuzu Zulu Z or simply as one of the shortest people on campus, well, now you know my full name. I am honored to be standing before you today sharing my final moments as ASB co-president. Putting into
014words the memories and experiences of the past four years is harder than it seems. After all, these are the halls, faces, and memories we have all grown so familiar with. To many people, being ASB co- president may seem like just a title, but for me, it was never about that. After the countless hours I poured into ASB, I hope I helped create memorable experiences throughout your high school years where every dance was filled with joy, every rally was just as lively, and where every event was just as memorable. These are the memories we will carry with us long after graduation. High school was never just about academics, grades, or titles. Years from now, people will remember your GPA or every assignment you turned in. What they will remember is the impact you made, the risks
015you took, the challenges you overcame. Dedication, resilience, courage, and kindness are what leave a lasting impression. Standing here today feels surreal. We spent years counting down to graduation. The years, the months, the weeks, the days, and even the minutes. Not sitting in your seats, we count down the seconds. I congratulate each and every one of you because your hard work has brought you to this moment. the moment where our freshman self could not anticipate. Where the walks through the hallways, the inside jokes in class, the conversations with teachers, the last minute bells, and the time spent with friends will all be missed and simply would just be a fun memory. These past four years have truly been one for the books. But like Drake once said, "To's turn, we'll just burn. You live and you
016learn. These past four years will stay with us for the rest of our lives. Not everything is meant to last forever, and that's okay. We have all experienced failures, disappointments, and mistakes. But those moments shape us into who we are today. High school is the one place where you realize that even the person next to you is not as perfect as they seem. We all have our fair share of imperfections and challenges. So my advice, wherever you go, make those mistakes, create those friendships, try new things, seek growth. It's okay to fail because that's where we learn the most. I'd like to thank a moment. Thank some of my biggest supporters on campus. Miss Pelvis. From the moment I walked into your classroom, I knew I had found a place where my weirdness, my jokes,
017and my laughter would be appreciated. You saw strength in me when I saw weakness and helped shape me into the person standing here before you today. Thank you for everything you have done for me, for ASB, and for our entire student body. And to Mr. Ellis, you have watched me grow since fifth grade and challenged me in ways I never thought possible. Thank you for always putting a smile on my face and supporting me throughout the years. Thank you to the people who have stood by my side, even when times got tough through the thick and the thin. Words can't explain the gratitude to have such amazing friends, specifically the one who helped me navigate senior year. Thank you to the people who have taught me the toughest lessons and for the tears they made
018me shed. And most of all, I'd like to thank the people sacrificed everything to give me the opportunities I have today. And to my brother, my biggest role model, thank you for always pushing me to be better, keeping me grounded, and being someone I can look up to. Words can describe how thankful I am to have someone like you to call me a brother. Thank you to the entire class of 2026. Every one of you played a role in making our senior year what it was. And most importantly, on behalf of our class, I'd like to thank all of our families and friends. Thank you for every sacrifice, every word of encouragement, and every moment of support that helped us reach this stage. The return of tassel, it might chapter and a new beginning. So
019don't be afraid. Live your grandest moments. Take risks. Years from now, I hope you remember the people sitting beside you today. The laughter that filled these falls and the moments that made these years unforgettable. because one day we'll realize that the days we couldn't wait to be over and became the breeze we wish we could relive one more time. Congratulations, class of 2026. Thank you. I would like I would now like to introduce my co-president Steven Martinez. Thank you, Selma. Good evening, board president Garza, members of the board, Superintendent Dr. Simons, district staff, teachers, families, and most importantly, the graduating class of 2026. I was proudly and blessed to have served as your ASB co-president this school year alongside Zlay Castro. This year I strive not only to ensure the best events for you all
020but to impact as many of you as I could and even every day try and become a better version of myself. This journey that we all have been on to end up in these seats today was not an easy journey but a journey of hardship and lessons joys and tears of which makes us the people we are today. Having gone to IOC as a part of the first dual immersion class was such a blessing which taught me many lessons. As you know I didn't grow up with many of you here today but that didn't matter. Admire the time that I did have here with you all the past six years and the friendships I've made because it doesn't matter where you start off but rather where your journey takes you and the people you meet
021along the way and the lessons you learn. I am proud to have been a Buccaneer and experienced the past six years here together. We've experienced a year of online school, a year of mask and everything in between. Whether it's heartbreaks, the most important moments of our lives, or rushing in to turn it, rushing to turn in assignments that we procrastinate to the last moment to turn in with just one minute left before 11:59. We've done it all together. You finished your journey here at Bellflower, but you finished being a part of someone's favorite moments in life. Think of those who push you every single day to finish this journey. Whether it's your friends, your parents, or your teachers. And now realize how proud they are of you. Because it doesn't matter if you're in the
022front or the back rows. It matters that you accomplished this journey of 13 years. At the end of the day, your GPA won't define who you are in life. Your character and hard work will from this point on. If I could encourage you all to understand three things, it would be to lead, to love, and to live. To lead does not mean to have control, nor does it mean to have a title. It means to make a it means to make a positive impact and influence on others and be respected. The greatest leaders aren't just leaders, but role models. To love is to feel truly happy. Whether it's through a person or doing something, find something you love and stick with it and give it your all. I encourage you to I encourage you all
023to go out and try new things and put effort into something you love. Because when you put your all into something, you either win or you learn. I also encourage you all to go out and live life. To that to you that might mean traveling, going out. But to live life means to overcome your fears and not be afraid. Go ask that person out. Go face your biggest fear. Only God knows only God knows how long you'll be here. So seek peace and overcome those fears because you can't add days to your life. So you shouldn't waste them. But the only the one thing that you can do is add life to your days. With these three things, you can go anywhere in life because because it's what you make of your own life that
024matters regardless of your path. As I end this speech, I would like to thank everyone along my journey. my mom and dad, my brother, Misos, the rest of my family, my best friends, Nathan, Brock, Andrew, and Ryan, my ASB co-president Zma, the teachers from every grade in elementary like Mrs. Monoy, Mrs. Rivas, Miss Estrada, Ethamian, Mr. Davis, Erieas, all the way up to high school teachers like Mrs. Hov, and Mr. Thomas, and others including Mr. Lungren and Mrs. Cummings, and the countless in between. This was not just a journey made my made by myself, but one shaped by all of you, whether or not you knew it. And most importantly, my journey was shaped by God. Without him, I would not be the person I am today. And without all of your guys' support, I
025would not be on the stage tonight as a ASB co-president or even receiving two associate degrees alongside my high school diploma. And for the class of 2026, please remember if you're nervous or afraid of something, remember everything just like this moment will lose its meaning because it's the reality that it can end that gives every moment its value. So cherish and live every moment to the fullest. Continue to strive every single day to accomplish a goal no matter how big or small it is. And as I would end each morning announcement, we are the best because uni creates success. >> And congratulations to the class of 2026. God bless you all. Thank you. And now the ensemble will perform a special musical tribute to the class of 2026 with a rendition of Everybody Who Wants
026to Rule the World. It's shut. Exactly. Okay. See? Step. There's no Oops. Let's give one more ensemble. A number of students are honored for their exceptional academic achievements. These seniors were recognized individually at our senior awards nights. But this evening, we will have them stand and be recognized collectively as a group. We are proud to acknowledge our scholar students. The following seniors have earned academic distinction based on their cumulative grade point averages and their completion of the most rigorous courses offered at Belfflower High School. The first group that we will recognize has earned the highest academic honors, achieving a cumulative GPA of 4.0 and higher. These students have demonstrated exceptional dedication in academic excellence. In recognition of their achievement, they've received a medal, gold cord, and a gold tassel to wear here at graduation. Students
027receiving highest academic honors, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. Students who have earned high academic honors have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 to 3.99. In recognition of their academic success, these students have been presented with a silver cord and a silver tassel to wear tonight. Students receiving high academic honors, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. Students who have earned academic honors have earned a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 to 3.49. In recognition of their academic success, these students have been presented with a white tassel to wear at graduation. Students receiving academic honors, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. The California Seal of Civic Engagement recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in civic education and have demonstrated
028an understanding of the United States Constitution, the California Constitution, and our democratic system of government. To be eligible for the California Seal of Civic Engagement, students must demonstrate mastery in history social science curriculum and participate in one or more informed civic engagement projects. These students are noted in the program with a plus sign next to their names listed in the beginning of the program where you will find the full class list of the class of 2026. They have received a golden seal a fixed to their diploma. California State Seal of Civic Engagement students, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. Tonight, we celebrate the second graduating class of our early college program. Early College reflects Belfflower High School's ongoing commitment to acade academic excellence and college and career readiness. The Early
029College Academy is a collaboration between Belflower High School and Cerritos College designed to provide students with early access to higher education. Through this innovative program, students are concurrently enrolled in both high school and college courses, allowing them to earn transferable college credits while earning their high school requirements. Students participating in this program have the opportunity to complete 43.5 college units in addition to their high school diploma. A truly remarkable achievement. Each of our early college students has received a maroon stole to wear this evening and they also have a gold graduation gown on to recognize their dedication to their future. Early college students, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. AVID. Thank you. You may be seated. AVID advancement via individual determination is a nationally recognized college and career readiness program
030designed to close the achievement gap and help every student reach their academic potential. This year, 82% of our AVID seniors were accepted into a 4-year university. 93% are A throughG eligible and their average GPA before joining AVID was 2.85. Yet their average GPA tonight is 3.24 which is an 84% increase for our GPA for our AVID students. These students have embraced the demands of rigorous academics, honored their leadership and organizational skills, and exemplified the power of collaboration and perseverance. They have inspired their peers and prep and prepared themselves for success beyond their Belfflower High School experience. AVID students, please stand to be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. The California Scholarship Federation is an organization that began in 1921 to honor an outstanding high school students. The purpose of CSF is to foster high
031standards of scholarship, service, and citizenship. One of the functions of CSF is to recognize long-standing accomplishments by awarding lifetime seal bearer status to students who have been members four of the last six semesters, including at least one semester during their senior year. Students in CSF will have a gold seal affixed to their diploma recognizing this achievement. Students in CSF are also presented with a certificate, a gold stole, and a pin. Their award signifies lifetime membership into the California Scholarship Federation. CSF students, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. The National Honor Society is an organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. NHS recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. The Belfflower High School chapter of the National Honor Society was formally established
032in 2013. Each of these students received a white stole to wear tonight at graduation. Their award signifies their lifetime membership in the National Honor Society. NHS students, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. The Academic Program of Excellence or Apex is a voluntary rigorous academic program designed to prepare Belfflower High School's highest achieving students for admission into the most competitive colleges and universities in the country. Apex offers an enriched course sequence that includes advanced placement coursework, challenging and rewarding our most academically motivated and academically talented students. To earn the distinction of Apex graduate, students must complete a minimum of five AP courses and maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.6 and higher. Beyond academics, Apex students have demonstrated a commitment to college readiness through preparation, community service, mentorship opportunities, travel, and leadership
033development. Each graduate has earned the honor of wearing a silver stole and a maroon gown with a gold band on the sleeve, signifying their achievement as Apex Scholars. At this time, I ask our Apex graduates to stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. The state seal of biiteracy honors students who have reached proficiency in two or more languages by the time of high school graduation. These students received a medal and have a gold seal affixed to their diplomas and it is noted on their final transcripts recognizing them as the recipients of the state seal of biiteracy. Students who earn the state seal of biiteracy, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. Tonight, we proudly recognize the students who have successfully completed the A throughG course requirements, an important
034academic milestone that makes them eligible for admission to California's public university systems, including the University of California and CA State University campuses. To meet these requirements, students must successfully complete a rigorous sequence of 15 college preparatory courses with a grade of C or better in subjects such as English, mathematics, laboratory science, world language, and other academic disciplines. Earning A throughG completion requires dedication, perseverance, and a strong commitment to academic excellence, making it an achievement worthy of celebration. It reflects a student's dedication to academic excellence. perseverance through challenging coursework and readiness for the demands of higher education. These students have remained focused, committed, and goal oriented throughout their high school journey. They have taken on each academic challenge with purpose, often balancing extracurricular responsibilities, part-time jobs, and family obligations, all while keeping their focus on their
035futures. This accomplishment opens the door to college, career pathways, and lifelong opportunities. and we commend them for taking this important step towards realizing their full potential. I'm very proud to announce that the class of 2026 has 56% meeting the A3G requirements this year, a 10% increase from last year. These students have received a blue cord to wear tonight. At this time, we ask our students meeting A throughG please stand and be recognized. Well done, seniors. You may be seated. The Belgia Unified School District is proud to offer a robust career technical training program at all of its high schools. CTE programs consist of a two-year sequence of courses that integrate core academics knowledge with technical occupational skills, preparing students for both post-secary education and future careers. Tonight, Belfflower High School is pleased to recognize students
036who have successfully completed a two-year CTE core sequence and earned a grade of C or higher in each course. These students have demonstrated commitment and achievement in their chosen pathway and have received a medal in honor of their accomplishments. CTE pathway completer students, please stand and be recognized. Thank you. You may be seated. To be eligible for the Golden State Seal Merit Diploma, students must demonstrate mastery in at least six curriculum content areas: language arts, mathematics, science, US history, and the completion of two other high school courses with an overall grade point average of 3.5 or above in those courses. These students will have a golden seal affixed to their diploma and included on their final transcripts. I would like to ask these students to please stand at this time and be recognized. Golden State
037Seal Merit Diploma students, please stand. Thank you. You may be seated. The distinction of validictorian is awarded to Belfar High School seniors having the highest academic achievements of the class and earning the highest rank. This year we have two validictorians. Victor K Victor Kovarius is our first validictorian for the class of 2026. Victor has earned a cumulative grade point average of 4.56. Victor has been in the Belfar Unified School District for 11 years. Washington Elementary School before promoting to Gflower Middle and High School. Victor has been actively involved on our campus and participated in numerous academic, athletic, and extracurricular activities including cross country, swim, track, art club, Thesbians, Red Cross club, Academic Program of Excellence, California Scholarship Federation, National Honor Society, Ceramics Club, Key Club, and MOU Alpha Theta. Victor's academic achievements res reflect exceptional
038dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence. Throughout his high school, he challenged himself with one of the most rigorous case lo course course loads possible, successfully completing 10 advanced placement courses, passing six AP exams, earning credit through three dual enrollment classes, and excelling in four honors courses. His determination to pursue academic growth at every opportunity serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through hard work and passion for learning. Victor's involvement and dedication both inside and outside the classroom reflect his commitment to excellence and embody what it means to be a Belfflower Buccaneer. Victor was accepted into seven four-year universities and will be attending the University of California, San Diego, where he plans to major in bioengineering. Go ahead. He is considering a future career in medicine with interests in becoming a radiologist,
039pathologist, or anesthesiologist. Congratulations, Victor Kovarius. Good evening to the class of 2026. First, I'd like to thank the staff and faculty for giving me the opportunity to speak before you all today. There are far more things I wish I could say to each and every one of you than I could ever fit into a single speech. Regardless, I do not solely accept this recognition because I must truly because I truly believe that every single one of you contributed in some way or another to my own success more than you'll ever know. Therefore, this is my chance to pay it forward. And because of that, I'll be honoring quite a few of you. I will start with my parents whose struggles and sacrifice have not only built me into the person I am today, but who
040I owe my life to. Although we sometimes bump heads, I love you all, both to a degree that I don't think I could ever pay forward. You both sacrifice so much to give me the life I get to live. Thank you, Mom and Dad. There are no other parents I could have asked for because your love shows no bounds and you're always there to support me when I need it. I love you guys. To my teachers, especially Senora Karim, Dr. Kim and Mr. Adrians. Oh, also co coach Esban, your mentorship and support have molded me into a better person. You had the unfortunate pleasure of being with me for multiple years and you were the cornerstone of the values I inherited. Thank you for your patience, guidance, and support throughout these years. I will forever
041be indebted to you. to my friends and please bear with me as I name all of you. Leilani, June, David, Joselyn, Crystal, Vanessa, Darlene, Marisol, Denise, Janet, both Andrews, Lily, Elise, Gerardo, Mimik, Kev, Bev, Tvake, Christian, Penny, Cloud, Sarah, Michelle, Dar, Y, Diego, Saul, Isaac, Fabian, Ethan, Angel, Quinn, Jesus, Jeffrey, Mata, and Adrian. You guys are some of the most inclusive, funny, heartwarming, and kind people I have ever met. I love you all so dearly. Despite what I might say or how I might act, I truly believe all of you have such remarkable talents in your own right, and success immeasurable by normal means. Each of you has overcome your individual struggles and shown up to be people I admire. Despite what might despite what life has thrown your way, be proud of the people
042you are because I sure am. That goes especially for me. Speaking in front of all of you and those I thank, I've realized that you've all given me something invaluable. Not just memories, not just support, but perspective. Because through all your struggles and successes, I've come to appreciate a simple truth. The things most worth pursuing are rarely the things that come without risk. And whenever I think about that idea, I find myself contemplating a story. A Greek story, the story of Icarus. Icarus was the son of Datalus, a brilliant inventor. The two were imprisoned on top of a tower on an island. And to escape, Datalus crafted two pairs of wings made from feathers and wax. Before they flew, he warned his son, "Don't fly too high or the sun will melt the wax. Don't
043fly too low or the sea will swallow you. Stay in the middle. Stay safe." But when Icarus took flight, presented with the world at his fingertips and freedom beyond imagination, his ambition overtook him. He ignored his father's warnings and climbed higher and higher toward the sun. The intense heat melted the beeswax holding his wings together. The feathers disintegrated and Icarus plunged into the sea and drowned. Parents, I'm sure the story resonates with many of you because it's easy to draw a parallel between Icarus and your children sitting here today. But I'd like to challenge the way we remember this story by adding one subtle detail. Icarus laughed as he fell, for he knew to fall means to have one sword. I've always loved that modern interpretation because it doesn't focus only on the dangers of
044ambition. Instead, it reminds us of the beauty of pursuing something extraordinary, of chasing a dream fully at the risk of failure. Many of us spend our lives following Datalus' warnings. We fly in the middle. We do just enough. We trade opportunity for safety. But from this story, I hope you remember Icarus not as a warning but as a calling. A calling to face the sun, our future with courage. To risk failure in pursuit of something meaningful. To s to leave the world altered simply because you are here. Because the future belongs to the people willing to shape it. And I believe every single one of you will touch that sun in your own way. Fly too high, love too much, care too deeply, and laugh too loudly. Because too many people live exactly as datalus
045instructed, safely, carefully, somewhere in the middle. They spend their lives waiting for certainty before they dare to live at all. They lose today worrying about tomorrow and tomorrow fearing what comes after that. As Senica wrote, they lose the day in expect in expectation of the night and night in fear of the dawn. Do not fear the dawn. Face the sun and if you fall, laugh as you fall because that's how you know you were really fine. Thank you and congratulations to the class of 2026. Thank you, Victor. Our second validatoran for the class of 2026 is David Loza. David has earned an impressive cumulative G gradepoint average of 4.56. He began his educational journey in the Belfflower Unified School District at Washington Elementary School before being promoted to Belfflower Middle and High School. David has
046challenged himself academically and has been actively involved on campus through organizations including MOU Alpha Theta, Academic Program of Excellence, California Scholarship Federation, captain of the varsity cross country team, and Key Club. David embraced every challenge, completing an impressive 11 advanced placement courses, passing six AP exams, earning college credit through four dual enrollment classes, and excelling in four honors courses. His commitment to learning, strong work ethic, and determination to push himself beyond expectations exemplify the very best of our graduating class. David's dedication to academics and involvement on campus demonstrated strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. His journey reflects perseverance and determination that define Belfflower Buccaneers. David was accepted into four four-year universities and will be attending the University of California, Irvine, where he plans to major in biological sciences. Looking ahead, he hopes to pursue
047a career as a doctor and is currently interested in becoming either a hematologist or a general surgeon. Congratulations, David. Good evening, family, friends, faculty, and students. My name is David Loza, and I'm grateful to present myself as a validictorian for the class of 2026. To start things off, I would love to thank my mom, my dad, and my sister for your unwavering encouragement and care. I wouldn't be here today without you all. You've been the backbone of my success and my development into the person I am today. And you helped me more than you could ever know. Thank you to my dad who always pushed me to do what I needed to do well. To get up and to do things I needed to get done, even if I didn't like it. To my mom.
048The kindness, love, and understanding you have shown me has laid the foundation for my growth as a person. All right. I hope someday I can give everything back and more. Thank you, Mom. As for my little sister, Priscilla, there are very few people who are able to make me laugh as much as you do. Not only that, your resolve to involve yourself in high school as much as as much as possible inspires me to try and do the same. Everything I do, I do for you all. I truly couldn't have asked for a better family than the one I got. To my teachers, Dr. Kim and Mr. Adrians, it was an honor to be under your guidance. Hope you are both pr proud to have me as one of your students. Dr. Kim, you made
049every class a captivating and fun experience. I admire both your mind and genuine care for the success of your students. I truly couldn't have asked for a better math teacher. Mr. Adriens, thank you for being both my biology teacher and my coach. You have known me the longest out of any teacher, and I hope I've made you proud, both in cross country and with my academic achievements. Thank you to my girlfriend, Italy, for always being by my side, both in celebrating my achievements and consoling me in my weakest moments. Your support and care and love have allowed me to keep pushing forward even when I felt like I didn't have it in me. To have experienced such genuine laughter and care for with each other is something I will forever cherish. Thank you to my
050friends. Thank you for showing me such remarkable combinations of creativity, humor, intellect, determination, passion, and perspective that make you who you are. Now, it's going to a bit of a repeat from what Victor said, but I also like to give a special thanks to my friends Jean, Leilani, Gerardo, Janet, Jocelyn, Angel, Lily, Jesus, Tvake, Penny, Sarah, Andrew S, and Andrew L. both big and mini cap. Ethan Bologonic and Ethan Martinez, Natalia, Darlene, Vanessa, and yeah. Oh, yeah. And also to my fellow valictorians, Victor, I will always look back fondly at seeing all of you grow into a stronger, kinder, more confident people. Now, to represent this class is an honor. for I know how many talented and kind-hearted individuals are amongst us in the crowd. I know that for all of us getting to this
051point was not easy. We've all had our fair share of both emotional and physical struggles. Whether it was practice for the sports we devoted ourselves to or the classes that most challenged our understandings, we c we overcame these obstacles and then some to become who we are today. Our failures have given us strength and our pains and struggles have given us motivation to become more. As we've grown, our vision has become clear to this ever changing world. It is a world full of people with the capabilities to both help and destroy the lives of others. A world full of uncertainty. That is why I ask you to remain strong even in the toughest of times. We cannot let our morality sway. We cannot become the people that inflict pain on others. We must dream big
052if we make if we wish to make any change at all. We must cling on to both each other and to hope. If we believe there is a better tomorrow that exists for all of us, we can incite change, even if it's small. Day by day, it will add up into something grander. There will be challenges ahead of us that will test our resolve, that will break us down, and that will force us to look inward. And in those moments, we're clinging and in those moments are where clinging to hope matters most. Remember, it is never as bad as it seems. And you are all much stronger than you think. Thank you for listening. And congratulations to the class of 2026. Thank you, David. The distinction of saludiatoran is awarded to the senior with the
053second highest rank earned at Belfflower High School. Our saludiatoran for the class of 2026 is Mate Esparsa. Mate has earned an impressive cumulative grade point average of 0.44. She has been a part of the Belflower Unified School District family for the past 12 years, beginning her educational journey at Ramona Elementary School before promoting to Belfflower Middle and High School. Mate has demonstrated outstanding leadership and involvement throughout her time at Belfflower Middle School. She has served as color guard captain, band council member, apex secretary, mu alphatheta president, link crew cabinet member, and has also been actively involved in the national honor society, California scholarship federation and red cross club. Mate challenged herself with a rigorous course load, completing seven advanced placement courses and achieving an outstanding accomplishment of passing all seven AP exams. In addition, she
054excelled in two dual enrollment classes and three honor classes, demonstrating both perseverance and a passion for learning. Through her many leadership roles and activities, Mait has consistently shown dedication, service, and a commitment to making a positive impact on our campus community. Her involvement reflects both her passion for helping others and her drive to lead by example. Mate has been accepted into eight four-year universities and will attend Mount St. Mary's University where she plans to major in nursing. Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue a career as a registered pediatric nurse, dedicating her future to caring for and supporting children and families. Congratulations, Mate. Thank you, Mrs. Cummings. Welcome, parents, family, staff, teachers, faculty, and most importantly, the class of 2026. My name is Mesa, your saludiatoran of the graduating class. our journey at Belfflower on a
055screen. Many of us were anxiously waiting to finally step foot on campus. Our eighth grade year now many of us are anxiously waiting for our college experience to begin. There are various teachers, staff, friends. I would like to personally thank to begin with I would like to thank Dr. Kim. You go above and beyond your teaching duties, demonstrating true interest in the success of your students. You are the best teacher I could have asked for and beyond acade academics have always been a supportive friend with amazing advice. Thank you, Mrs. SA. Thank you for being an angel in my life. You have always demonstrated kindness towards me and inspired me to do the same for others. Although I only met you this year, your wisdom, kindness, and advice has made a mark on my senior
056year. Thank you, Miss Allen and Mr. Smith, for believing in me, helping me with college applications, and showing me so much support. Thank you, Miss Ortega, Miss Steber, Miss Perez, Mr. Ellis, and various other teachers who have demonstrated kindness and support as well. To my high school sweetheart, getting to know you in math led to endless laughs and long lasting memories. Thank you for all the encouragement and support. You have made high school a memorable experience. To my best friend, Angelina, and her family. Thank you for Thank you all for treating me as a second family. When I think back at high school, I remember the endless laughs to competitions. When my were not able to assist. You always made sure that I felt encouraged and supported. Thank you. I would most importantly like to
057thank God for granting me help, waking me up every morning for school, and most importantly giving me such a beautiful family. Growing up with my brothers Ernie and Mateo has been such a blessing. We have shared various laughs and beautiful memories together. Ernie, I am proud of you and keep working hard to achieve your dreams. Mateo, you're still a baby, but I thank you for lightening up my day after school and bring me so much joy to my life. Fore! Foreign! Foreign! forc. can responsibility inspired. Mommy, cheese, Disneyland. I learned that many sacrifices, long hours of work and dedication of immigrant parents are overlooked. However, this taught me to not judge a book by its cover. Instead, we can only feel empathy and understand that everyone has personal experiences, fears, and struggles that shape their
058story. Today, I'm representing my story. I am a first generation Mexican-American woman, who represents the sacrifices of immigrant parents who left their home country to give their children a chance of that American dream. Through my countless hours of studying and working towards this dream, I'm able to stand here today as your saludiatoran. No matter your color, ethnicity, gender, language you speak, you are all capable of achieving all the goals you aspire as long as hard work and dedication is invested. Class of 2026, each student has had a different journey and story of high school. Many of you have beautiful gifts I have been able to witness. Some have beautiful voices. Some know how to kick a ball into a net. Some spin flags. And some are academically talented. We are all unique yet something unites
059us all. We are all human who wish nothing but happiness in life. As we enter the next chapter of our lives and write out the rest of our stories, mistakes are bound to happen. We will misspeak, treat others unfairly, and the wrong choices. However, it is important to understand that mistakes lead us to success. Every choice, right or wrong, has led you to this moment. For that reason, I encourage you all to focus on the positive aspects of your life. When moments get difficult, think of those around you that bring happiness into your life. During high school, for me, it was my beautiful color guard team who always brought a smile to my face. No matter if we won or lost, Frying food at concessions, making Tik Toks, and laughing at our conversation outweighed any
060negative emotions. Life is too short to focus on what makes you unworthy. Live your life to the fullest and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Class of 2026, today is not only a celebration of our accomplishments, but also of every sacrifice, every late night, every challenge, and every person who helped us get here. As we leave Fowlflower and begin our new chapter of our lives, I hope we carry out with us kindness, empathy, and the courage to continue chasing our dreams even when life gets difficult. No matter where life takes us, never forget where you came from, and never be afraid to be the person you are meant to be. Our stories are still being written, and this is only the beginning. To the class of 2026, continue dreaming big. Continue making your families
061proud and most importantly continue being the light in the lives of others. Congratulations class of 2026. Thank you mate. At this time I would like to invite Dr. Aaron Simon, superintendent of schools for the Belfflower Unified School District to the lectern for the presentation of the Belfflower High School graduating class of 2026. I need you a little bit longer to celebrate the 2026. Yes. This is Mara Garza, president of the board. Will you please join me? By the authority vested in me by the state of California and the board of education, I do hereby certify that the students of this class have completed the requirements for graduation as prescribed by the California Education Code and the policies of the Bellflower Unified School District. Mrs. Garza It is with tremendous pride that I present to you
062the Bellflower High School class of 2026. It is my pleasure to accept the certification results. Congratulations to the class of 2026. At this time, the members of the board of education will present diplomas to the graduates. Out of respect for all members of the class of 2026 and their families, we ask that you please remain seated in the stands until the conclusion of the ceremony and until all graduates have left the field in the recessional. Students will exit using the gate to your right. I think we're going anymore. All right. >> Yeah. See, this is much better. This is what we do. Good. >> Michael Spa, Victor. David Loza, Jennith G, Eric Barker, Lily Moreno, Anna Ko, Victoria, Guzman, more vera where Denise Vega Malia David Zua Andre Bazan Gabriel, Ethan Bolan, Jesus Gan, Ashley
063Diaz, Sarah, Sarah Potato, Maximto, Sebastian Lewis, Andrew Santana, >> Janet Martinez, Teresa Lou, Joselyn Rose, Mariel Jasmine Sanchez, Chelog, Tony Chan, Ni Gierz, Miguel Adam, Melanie Espanola, Oscar Blo, Raymond John Estrada, Valeria Carbaja, Norma Garcia, Ahmed El Shahari, Luna Fazong, Jeffrey Espinosa, Jonathan Gonzalez, Ella Fernandez, Hawaiian, Adrien Garcia Romero, Jordan Johnson, Wendy Flores, Michelle Wing, Elizabeth Gutierrez, Amaya, Joselyn, Jason Harris IIL, Sean Andrew Kester Jr. Isaac O'Re, Diego Mer Lopez, Alyssa Pani, Svak Darling, anonymous. Oops. Alberta, Sanchez, Jacob, Matthew Ramos, Jose. Kevin Vinas, Isaiah Austin, Desire Rodriguez, Alex, Emily Salazar, Annayia Bradley, Micah Zach, Bons, Adriana Vera, Jason, Johannes, Natalia. Melissa Gardoza. How'd you call your name? Hold on. Ethan Alvarez, Gabriel Casillas, Camila Benal, Nathan, Maria, Jacob Diaz, Leila Brown Diaz, Fabian Compante, Lydia Elias, Angel Cardoza, Crystal Espininoza, Mas, Kale Carter, Christina Malipas,
064Gabriel Chakong, Andrew Garcia, Cassandra Cortez, Lozano, Angelique Gibson, Natalie Diaz Coraso, Isabella Gutier, Sebastian Dorado, Jimea Hernandez, Mesa, Fatima, Espinosa, Anthony Herrera, Victor Flores, Clarice, Jesus Garcia, Ashley Lisa Garcia, Jenn Isaiah Lopez, Arton Gutierrez de Henry, Stanley Hollard, Sean Kaiser, Steven Mendoza, Caitlyn Luga, Mohammed, Andrew Lopez, Francis Molina, Jeso, Ethan Marvin, Amir Neil, Ethan Martinez, Ooa, Genesis, Shantel, Alexa Dea, Navia, Ayana, Diego Martinez, Christian Daniel Chavez, Andrea Westeros Robinson Jasmine A Jesse Sanchez, Nathan O'Kee Smith, Camila Vando, Kendall Pades, Ramirez, Darano, Torres, I think a Sophie Arystal Andrew Alonzo Adrien Zenna Ahsa Julana Ariana Jared Walker, >> Isaac Argo, >> Aguilar, >> Ara, Idan, Asencio, Samantha, Isabella, Aon, Rosie Ceil, Diana, Alonso Desian, Ariano. Daniel Black, Jose Arana, Isabella Jasmine Carvajal Monser Lopez Bautista and Histo Jolene Mless Yes. Alejandro Corbar Flores Florida, >> Jacqueline,
065Florida, Rosales, >> Kimberly Carmona, >> Maris Garcia, Isaac Carvajal, Jean Garcia, Sally Garcia Anthony Gonzalez, >> Brian Cruz, Garcia, >> Des Martinez, >> Junior Alejandra Enriquez Enriquez, John the fourth, Emanuel Felix, Linda Arnandez, Matthew Arnandez, Troy Hodes, Jala, Tyler Hel Garcia, >> Luc Garcia, Ryan Hz Garcia Mund, >> Joanna Jimenez, Aliyah Gomez, David Lasso, Melissa Gonzalez, China. >> Yeah. Estimar Vince Mortz is Harris Turner Los Ramos. Brown heads. Yeah. Zyl, >> Joseph, Jordan, >> Joseph, Alexa, Ignasio, Luke, Donna, Christa, Desma, Samantha Lantes, Jaden Lewis, Andrea Moran, Noah Lopez, AJ Titles, Isaac Lopez, >> Asha Na, Adrien Lozano, Jun Madras, Eric, Maxwell, Manzo, Damian Perez, Antonio Morenza, Isaac Martinez Axelunza and here >> Oscar Stephanie, Ryan Sanchez, Jerus Sanchez, J Spider Alexander. And the yellow Martinez. Anthony, Natalie, Almada, Daniel, Kayla Williams, Mitchas, Kayla Sandas Velasquez
066Jonathan Jasmine Mendosa Antonio. There's a square. You done stinson, Vetta Jazelle Torres, Rudy Valdia, Alex Vega, Jesus, Ty, New Steven Jesse Martinez, >> Julian Luna, USA. Oh shoot. Please join me in welcoming back the senior class president to the podium for the final presentation of the graduates. At this time, I would like to ask all members of the class of 2026 to please stand. It is now time to move our tassels from the right side of our graduation class to the left, symbolizing our successful completion of this important milestone and our transition from students to graduates. Congratulations, class of 2026. Please join me for the singing of the alma mo. Maybe Good job. Don't be >> It's serious. Easy apple. You can talk it so I can pick it. Okay. Very strong. dream Sweet. It
067feels so scary. something. I don't think And now seems There's still Thank you for being here. You want to keep Otherwise,