With graduation approaching on Friday, May 30, Amador Valley’s seniors are in their final stretch of high school. Now is the time to make sure everything is in order—so nothing stands in the way of walking across that stage.
“If a student has not met their graduation requirements, they are not able to participate in Amador’s graduation ceremony,” said Amador Head Counselor Sheyrl Pacheco.
Returning School Materials
Before receiving a diploma, seniors must return all school property in good condition. This includes textbooks, library books, Chromebooks, and any borrowed equipment. Failure to do so may result in fines that must be paid before graduation.
“Students often will not take care of their devices, so this is probably more for freshmen through juniors. We will provide a new device to you, but that fine stays in your account, and you need to pay it off before you graduate,” said Amador Librarian Erik Scherer.
Graduation Requirements
To graduate, seniors must complete all academic requirements, including credit completion and service hours. Students should also attend all final exams and graduation practice, which is mandatory.
“If you don’t attend your finals, it could impact your semester grade—possibly affecting graduation eligibility or college admissions,” said Pacheco. “And if you miss graduation practice, it’s tricky to know where to go or what to do at the actual ceremony.”
Choosing a Graduation Teacher
Graduation is an exciting time for all graduating seniors. Each senior may choose a teacher to hand them their diploma—someone who has impacted their high school journey.
“It was hard to choose because I had multiple teachers in mind—Mr. Dennis because I’m going into engineering, or Mr. Grantham since I’ve done band for four years,” said Lia Lebreton (‘25). “Mr. Dennis wasn’t handing out diplomas, so I chose Mr. Grantham—it was an easy decision.”.
Cap Decorating Guidelines
Seniors are allowed to decorate their caps to show their excitement for the next big step in their lives, though caps will be checked to make sure their designs are appropriate and no taller than ¼ inch.
“I’m planning on putting little flowers on the side that look like a sunset and a quote in French in the middle to show that I’m still French but no one else can understand it,” said Lebreton.
After Graduation
After graduation, students are headed in many different directions. Some will begin preparing for college, while others are looking forward to travel, rest, or work.
“I am moving back to France with my parents, and then I will wait for college decisions to come out for France and Switzerland, and then decide where I end up going to college”, said Lebreton.
Where to Find More Information
For all the information on graduation, all seniors should regularly check their emails for the Senior Newsletter, which includes essential details about graduation, deadlines, and events. Students should also check StudentVUE to verify their graduation status.
“We’re here to support you, and we all want to be celebrating you on Friday, May 30, as you walk across the graduation stage. That is our goal for you. So, if there’s anything students need, please reach out to your counselor because that’s what we’re here for,” said Pacheco.
