By Laura Austin News Review Staff Writer–
Burroughs High School (BHS) held its 79th Annual Commencement celebration, a significant milestone in the lives of our students, on Friday, May 31, at 8 PM in the Burroughs Burros Football Stadium.
The first two graduating class ceremonies were held at the NOTS Station Theater on Base. The first graduating class of 1946 had 20 graduates. The second graduating class of 1947 had 33 graduates, compared to the more than 300 graduating Burros who walked across the stage last Friday Night. A packed stadium of family and friends came to witness loved ones graduate from high school.
“With their unwavering dedication, Burroughs High School’s teachers, administrators, and staff have always been the backbone of our students’ success. The Sierra Sands School District is committed to continuing this tradition of excellence for years to come,” said Board President Bill Farris.
The event began with the processional of graduates who paraded across the field to awaiting seats mid-arena.
The “Class Song” Pomp and Circumstance by Edward Elgar was played by the Burroughs High School Symphonic Band, led by Mr. Brian Cosner, Director of the Burroughs High School Band.
Shortly after 8 PM, a double F-18 Flyover of the China Lake Naval Weapons Center brought a great sense of patriotism, followed by the thousands that stood and paid tribute to our flag as the BHS Symphonic Band performed the National Anthem.
BHS Class of 2024 Mikaleis Rull-Hildreth, Senior Class Vice President, gave a warm welcome followed by words and songs from classmates: Liliana Urbina, ASB President, David Miranda, Sabrina Wells, Amanda Huynh, and Keleya Hilson.
Mrs. Carrie Cope, BHS Principal, gave the class words of wisdom regarding what it means to be a Burro and ended with the presentation of the Class of 2024 to Dr. April Moore, Superintendent of the Sierra Sands Unified School District Board of Education.
Dr. Moore spoke briefly offering encouraging words to the graduates before granting her approval to the traditional Moving of the Tassel and the Presentation of Diplomas. The evening began to close with the singing of “Alma Mater,” performed by the BHS Madrigals and directed by Mrs. Amber Petersen, Burroughs High School Choir and Orchestra Director.
An eruption of celebrative horns, cheers, and confetti, with the tossing of hats and shedding of tears, exploded as graduates celebrated, marking milestones and the beginning of a transition from one phase of their lives to the future.
