Diploma presentation was led by Maine Prairie High staff, who honored each student for their accomplishment. Contributing staff include counselor Joy Souza, social science teacher Dan Bledsoe, art teacher Regina Peterson, parent liaison Susana Perez, resource specialist Bridgett Murphy, English teacher Lindsey Balidoy and science teacher Dina Flamik. Photo courtesy of Isabella Quiniola/Dixon Unified School District

DIXON, CA (MPG) - Maine Prairie High School hosted graduation for its Class of 2025 at 6 p.m. June 4.

Held at the Dixon Community Performing Arts Center, 555 College Way, the event recognized 31 Maine Prairie High seniors.

According to Maine Prairie High School Principal Angelina Arias, the Class of 2025 has no limits.

“They have learned that there are no limits to the goals they set themselves,” said Arias.

The ceremony began with graduates entering and being seated to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance,” followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by graduate John Michael Mendoza.

Arias then addressed the crowd, stating her honor to recognize the Class of 2025.

“Tonight, you will hear heartfelt stories about determination and overcoming challenges,” said Arias.

Distinguished guests were also addressed, including the Governing Board of Trustees, Maine Prairie staff and community partners.

Makenzie Jacobs, a graduate and former Young Woman of the Month, was invited to the stage as the first of three student speakers. In her speech, Jacobs discussed graduating a year early, finding genuine connections and her instant comfort at Maine Prairie High School. Jacobs is considering mechanical engineering and wants to start her own business.

The next student speaker was Kylee Gage, who discussed how Maine Prairie helped her develop as a person.

“Maine Prairie isn’t just a continuation school; it’s a place to learn and grow,” said Gage. “I wouldn’t be here without my chosen family and my grandma looking down on me from above.”

Gage is moving to Idaho and starting college in the fall.

Emmanuel A. Velasquez Tobar was the third student speaker.

“I went from being a C average student to someone who could push through and walk the stage. To my classmates, this may be the end of one chapter but it’s the beginning of the next,” said Velasquez Tobar.

Velasquez Tobar was recognized for earning his diploma ahead of schedule, making him the first graduate in the Class of 2025. Velasquez Tobar said he is thankful for the privilege. He intends to join a union and go into carpentry.

 

Three student speakers, Makenzie Jacobs, Kylee Gage and Emmanuel A. Velasquez Tobar (pictured); addressed the audience. Velasquez Tobar is one of 18 students recognized for earning his diploma ahead of schedule. Velasquez Tobar was the first official graduate of the Class of 2025. Photo courtesy of Isabella Quiniola/Dixon Unified School District

Following these speeches and an address from Dixon Unified School District President Julian Cuevas, diploma presentation began.

Of the 31 graduates, each student was honored by a specific teacher or staff member. Staff members who presented included counselor Joy Souza, social science teacher Dan Bledsoe, art teacher Regina Peterson, parent liaison Susana Perez, resource specialist Bridgett Murphy, English teacher Lindsey Balidoy and science teacher Dina Flamik.

Parents were excited to see their children take the next step, including Nicole Mason, the mother of graduate Kaydence Jimenez.

“We’re super proud. She also had a baby last January but she finished in time. She’s going to go to collegeand this just shows her determination and strength. I could not be more proud to have a daughter like her,” said Mason.

Congratulations, Class of 2025.

For more information about the graduation, visit the Dixon Unified School District Facebook page or call 707-693-6300.