Colton, CA– The Whitmer Auditorium was booked for a formal and extremely emotional evening event on Wednesday, April 17th. The annual AVID Stole Ceremony commemorated all graduating AVID Seniors by having their stoles presented to them by a mentor of their choosing.
With the student’s future projected onto the massive Auditorium screen, they were able to meet their mentors halfway across the stage after giving their emotional speeches to receive their stole.
Seniors were able to choose any teacher they’ve had in the past to present them their stole. Each stole is embroidered with their names and the number of years they’ve dedicated to the AVID program.
AVID is a serious and rigorous commitment that in return prepares students for college, or whichever path they decide to take after high school.
“We have students who have been in our program [AVID] since middle school. 7th grade, a total of 6 years. Down to 4 years, 2 years, and we celebrate every single year that they have committed,” says AVID Coordinator Ms. Montiel. “That’s the reason they get their stole. That’s what it symbolizes, their commitment and dedication to our program.”
While giving their speeches to their chosen mentor on stage lots of seniors acknowledged that if it weren’t for these teacher’s support, they wouldn’t have been where they are in life today.
This ceremony is also largely a way for seniors to say ‘Thank You’, to those who matter the most.
Senior Natalie Diaz envisions it the same way. “It was awesome seeing all my friends share their love for their teachers and just hearing how much thought, dedication, and time these teachers put into their students just so they can succeed and achieve their dreams.”
Besides the presentation of the stoles, the graduating seniors themselves also see this event as one step closer to graduation next month in May. Emotions are starting to hit students like trains.
“I’m sad, and we’re getting old.” says Shantel Marentes, “I’m going to miss all my friends. And I’m glad I’ve had all these people to support me along the way.”
Though lots of happy tears were shed throughout the ceremony from both students, mentors, and parents alike, the ceremony will cement itself as a core memory for everyone as they remember how their student’s hard work came to fruition.
