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Galt High seniors graduate, prepare to ‘let future begin’

By Julie Z. Giese
News-Sentinel staff writer

Jeff Cooper, 18, awoke Thursday morning to realize that his time at Galt High School was quickly running out.

“It’s kind of a weird feeling,” Cooper said. “It’s really scary.”

Galt High School graduate Geremeeh Franco. (Click on the photo to view a larger version.)

Dressed in red caps and gowns, 293 Galt students made their final march into Warrior Stadium as seniors.

Family and friends filled the stadium stands and field to applaud the Class of 2001, clutching flowers, balloons and homemade signs for the graduates.

Randi Munch, 17, was eager to finish her secondary education she said as she held the tassel in center of her mortarboard awaiting instructions on which side to place it.

“I’m so ready to get out of here because I’m going to San Diego,” she said.

Munch plans to attend University of California, San Diego, to pursue a career as a high school math teacher.

Her excitement was shared by other graduates who sat restless in their seats and occasionally stood to cheer on fellow classmates.

Vice Principal Jeanette Neuburger recognized dozens of seniors for their outstanding academics.

The seniors earned more than $1.5 million in scholarships, including $31,000 from the Governor’s Scholar Program for high test scores.

Two students also were presented special awards at the ceremony. Jeff “FFA” Alves received the Audrey O. Reed Award for his outstanding leadership and academics while Carey Kinnard was presented the school’s Citizenship Award.

Jason Woods, who earned the title of salutatorian, reflected back on his educational journey.

He encouraged the graduates to take a chance and not to miss out on opportunities in life to be successful.

“We all have the potential to make a difference in the world,” Woods said.

Valedictorian Heidi Cash offered some insight into the high school experience.

Cash pondered why the end of high school brings such mixed emotions.

“It’s the people,” she exclaimed. “The real reason that today is so difficult and emotional is because we have to say good-bye to all the people who have helped us to get this far.”

She thanked the teachers, her classmates and family for making high school memorable.

Principal Larry Tosta edged in a few words of encouragement to the graduates.

Tosta told the students that it’s never too late to find the right path, which will lead to success.

“So I say to the Class of 2001 open the doors and let your future begin,” he said.

Wearing several floral leis, 17-year-old Geremeeh Franco said he’s looking forward to his future prospects.

“I’m kind of nervous, but I’m pretty excited,” he said.

Franco plans to attend DeVry Institute of Technology in Pomona to study computer science.

“But I’ll still miss high school,” he said. “I love my teachers, friends and community.”

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