Congratulations to the PAYS Fall Class of 2024! A total of 36 students from Central High School and Lake View High School were honored at the PAYS Fall Commencement Ceremony held on December 19, celebrating their resilience and achievements as they take the next step toward success.

As families and friends entered the McNease Convention Center ballroom, a presentation of "then-and-now" photos of each graduate played on the large screen, showcasing their journey. The ballroom, filled with support, was nearly at full capacity. Almost every one of the 600 seats in the ballroom was occupied. As the procession of graduates entered the ballroom, the students’ families and friends loudly clapped and cheered as the graduates took their seats.

The graduation ceremony began with the traditional processional of graduates, set to the familiar tune of “Pomp and Circumstance.” PAYS graduate Marquis Smith led his fellow peers and attendees in the National and State Pledges, followed by the invocation.

PAYS Assistant Principal Bernadina Riojas delivered opening remarks, introducing distinguished guests, including San Angelo ISD School Board members and administrators who gathered to celebrate this special occasion. Among those present were School Board Vice President Mrs. Ami Mizell-Flint, Board Treasurer Mr. Bill Dendle, and Board Trustees Dr. Kyle Mills and Mrs. Pam Duncan, along with Superintendent Dr. Christopher Moran, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Farrah Gomez, Chief Financial Officer Dr. Merl Brandon, Executive Director of Communications Shannon Schwartz, and the principals of Central and Lake View High Schools, Jill Ross and Zach Ramirez.

Ms. Claudia Becerra, PAYS Coordinator of Academic Alternatives, addressed the graduates with heartfelt words. “Welcome to this extraordinary celebration of resilience, achievement and the power of never giving up,” she said. “To each of you wearing a cap and gown tonight, you made it and we couldn’t be prouder … I want to acknowledge something about this graduating class. You are not ordinary students and this is not an ordinary school. PAYS is a place for those who need a different path. A place where persistence, heart and sheer determination shine brighter than any test score.”

Ms. Becerra then shared the parable of “The Old Mule in the Well,” which tells the story of a mule who, after falling into a well, uses the dirt thrown into the well to bury it as a stepping stone to ultimately rise out. The parable teaches resilience, encouraging confronting challenges and using adversity to overcome obstacles. Ms. Becerra then compared the graduating class to the resilient mule, recognizing that each graduate had faced their own struggles, personal battles or uncontrollable circumstances to reach this moment. She praised them for embodying the spirit of perseverance, overcoming life's challenges, and proving that with determination, support, and self-belief, they can achieve anything and defy the odds. 

“As you move forward into the next chapter of your lives, I want you to hold on to three things,” said Ms. Becerra. “First, never underestimate the power of persistence. Life will test you but you’ve already proven that you’re stronger than any test. Second, embrace your unique path. Success doesn’t look the same for everyone and that’s what makes it so beautiful. Finally, never stop learning. Not just from books or classes but from every experience, every failure and every triumph. Growth comes from staying curious and open to what life has to teach you.”

Graduate Kenzie Gonzales shared her personal story, reflecting on the support of her family and teachers in overcoming challenges to reach graduation. Dr. Moran then addressed the graduates, emphasizing the positive impact of kindness and good decisions, which can create a far-reaching butterfly effect.

Following Dr. Moran’s speech, Ms. Becerra proudly presented the graduating class to the Board of Trustees. Mrs. Mizell-Flint accepted the graduates on behalf of the Board, after which she, Mr. Dendle, Dr. Mills and Mrs. Duncan had the honor of presenting diplomas. The ceremony concluded with a moving benediction delivered by Nahum Obregon, Jr.

With great pride, Ms. Riojas presented the graduates one final time, and the moment was celebrated as graduates joyfully tossed their caps into the air. The event culminated in an outpouring of joy as families and friends came together to share in the celebration.

The full livestream recording of the PAYS graduation ceremony is available on the SAISD YouTube channel. The recording was broadcast on SAISDtv, Optimum Channel 4 in San Angelo and will continue to air on Channel 4 for two weeks after the ceremony. 

San Angelo ISD is incredibly proud of the Fall Class of 2024 and their outstanding achievements. This milestone marks not only the close of an important chapter but the exciting beginning of their future endeavors. To stay up-to-date on San Angelo ISD, please visit the SAISD website at www.saisd.org and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and X.