Back-to-back grads
Nearly 200 graduate from Butterfield and Porterville Adult School
With the enormous American flag that has dazzled thousands during Panther Band concert finales as a backdrop, Butterfield Charter High School and Porterville Adult School presented their Classes of 2018 in back-to-back graduation ceremonies on the Frank “Buck” Shaffer Stage inside the Porterville Memorial Auditorium Monday night.
Butterfield presented 81 graduates at their ceremony. Women graduates wore white caps and gowns and men wore brown.
The colors were presented by Capt. David Archer and cadets from the Porterville Military Academy, which will take up residence with Butterfield and Porterville Adult School at 900 Pioneer Ave. in a brand new school site beginning next fall.
During her student speech, Marlyn Altamirano reflected on the long road she and her fellow graduates have traveled to get to this moment, and commended them for their determination in the face of adversity.
“From how far we have gone to [avoid] becoming another dropout statistic, we have learned the life lesson of commitment and purpose,” said Altamirano. “We learned to stop doubting ourselves with the things we feel we can’t do and start believing we can accomplish anything we set our mind to.”
She also made a point to thank Butterfield staff and those at home for their support — no matter how big or small a role they played.
“Whether it be our siblings, friends, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, neighbors, or pets — it takes a village to raise a child. Thank you all for your support,” she said.
Graduate Jaime Dubin was presented with a scholarship from Caldwell Flores Winters Incorporated, then PUSD board member Hayley Buettner joined Butterfield staff in presenting diplomas to the graduates.
Next, the 114 graduates of Porterville Adult School took the stage in burgundy caps and gowns to be recognized for their work and receive their diplomas.
During her comments, Porterville Adult School Director Staci Phipps applauded graduates for making the commitment to finish what they started despite the challenges.
“Graduates, you had the courage to return to school, the perseverance to continue to attend no matter the obstacle, and you chose to be here tonight to let us celebrate your accomplishment,” said Phipps. “Nothing can stop you now. You have what it takes to succeed and I hope you create a future that you are completely passionate about. You certainly deserve it.”
PUSD Assistant Director of Adult Education Rhonda Crews announced the names of graduates as Porterville Adult School staff presented them with their diplomas.