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The AVID stoles are ready to adorn the collars of this year's grads.

Colton, CA—It was a night of high emotions and excitement on Friday night in the Hubbs Gym as the AVID program honored its graduating seniors during the 14th annual AVID Stole Ceremony.

At the ceremony, AVID students were presented graduation stoles by the individuals who inspired, nurtured, and supported them in achieving their goal to graduate high school and attend college. These individuals were memorable teachers, coaches, family, and mentors.

Daisy Contreras, Colton High’s AVID Coordinator, loves this event. While this was her first time planning an in-person event, it was her second ceremony after last year’s virtual event. “I think what is special to me about this event is that the students get to be celebrated for all their hard work and they get to acknowledge an educator, mentor or coach who had an impact on their educational journey.”

Before each student was presented their stole, they presented their mentor with a gift and gave a brief speech explaining just how that individual had impacted their life. A total of 62 AVID students received stoles at the ceremony from 38 mentors, many of whom were Colton High staff. The students’ speeches were the highlight of the evening, as each was heartfelt and filled with stories about moments in which their lives were improved by their mentor.

For her mentor, Geraldine Montiel Ramirez chose a teacher who also happens to be her sister, Colton High history teacher Yaquelin Montiel Ramirez. “She’s always inspired me. I’ve always looked up to her,” Geraldine said about her sister. “She’s always been a really good role model, and I remember seeing her in high school when she got her AVID stole sash . . . and I was like, ‘oh, I wonder who I’m going to choose?’ And since she’s a teacher, I thought it would be the perfect thing to do because I appreciate her very very much.”

Ms. Montiel was touched deeply by her sister’s choice. “I was really honored because my sister has so many amazing teachers, and I couldn’t believe that she was going to bestow this on me. . . . It was very emotional. Her words were very kind and touching. Some of the things she said, I don’t think we’ve even said at home to each other in private, so some of the stuff I heard today was the first time I heard them.”

For ASB director Alexandra Buskirk, this was her first time at the ceremony, and five of her students asked her to do them the honors. One of those was ASB president, Joseph Duran, who has been her student for four years, and shared how sees her as a second mom in a speech he didn’t have written down.

“I didn’t have a speech printed, but I had a guideline of something I had to follow,” Duran said. “But honestly, being in ASB has really helped me put myself out there more and do something like that . . . I just spoke from the heart.”

Maths teacher Roxanne Berch has been attending these ceremonies for years now, and has presented several stoles, but each one is special. “It’s new every time because I think I’m totally surprised by the students who actually give me the honor to present their AVID stole. They’re usually students I don’t think care too much for me, so it’s always a big shock.”

In addition to student speeches, there were two keynote speakers at the start. CJUSD School Board member Israel Fuentes delivered a message built around the evening’s theme. And former Colton High Principal Joda Murphy delivered a more interactive presentation in which she invited all of the AVID students to gather around her at the front so they could look at a series of slides that told an inspiring story about  not quitting, working through uncomfortable places, and the value of relying on those who “have our backs.”

The event, which was last held in the Whitmer Auditorium, was moved to the Hubbs Gym and featured a set up that felt more like the Golden Globes awards show in contrast to the more Academy Awards-like environment in the Whitmer. Tables were set up across the gym floor, letting groups sit together and enjoy the evening in a more laid back, comfortable environment.

Daisy Contreras was satisfied with the results. “I think it went well overall. The students did well and I loved seeing all the families that showed up to support their child. Also may I add the photo booth was a hit.”