June 22, 2006

Pomp and Circumstance

Leland, Pioneer and Leigh launch seniors into the real world

Leland High School A proud Leland grad walks through the flowered arch at the Rose Garden in San Jose last Thursday June 15.

Some of Leland’s 451 graduates climb the stairs in front of a crowd that substantially overflows the spectator area at the Rose Garden. Left to Right: Melis Barota, Chris Faria, and Kevin Battipede pose for a photo after receiving their diplomas from Leland. Faria has cerebral palsy, but it hasn't stopped him from participating in a variety of sports including the football team and a sport called power soccer, as well as “walking” across the stage to accept his diploma with the help of his pals. From the raised stage, Leland graduates look out to the crowd of observers.

Leland, Pioneer and Leigh launch seniors into the real world

Pioneer High School

A graduate shakes the dignitaries hands after receiving her diploma at Pioneer High School's graduation.	Kelly Cruz checks her hair in the reflection of Renee Cummings' glasses as the Pioneer seniors wait in the back of the Rose Garden for graduation to begin.
Pioneer students enjoy each other's company one last time before they graduate and move on to the next stage of life.	Pioneer graduates move their tassels from left to right after all the students had received their diplomas signifying their status as graduates.

Leigh High School

Leigh held their graduation on their sports fields to accommodate one of the largest graduating classes in the Campbell Union High School District.	Leigh High seniors cheer as their class is announced to the audience during their June 15 graduation, as friends and family of Leigh High School graduates strain to get pictures of a large group of graduating friends.
Sara Slattery hugs Leigh High math teacher Miss Kennedy as the seniors leave the school gym to march to the stands for their graduation.