On June 9, 2011, the Carlsbad High School Class of 2011 proudly marched across Swede Krcmar Field Stadium to receive their diploma after four years as a high school student. Hundreds of Carlsbad seniors flooded the field in their lancer-pride-purple caps and gowns, overwhelming spectators with their numerous smiles.
For every student in a purple cap, there had to be at least fifteen people in the audience cheering them on. The home side, visiting side, and even the outskirts of the stadium was packed with everyone who was anyone.
As a junior at Carlsbad, watching my friends walk up onto that platform to receive their diplomas might as well have been nothing more than a very strange dream. These people have been my friends and mentors for the past three years. These are the people I looked to for guidance. Though I’ll be a senior next year, it’s hard to imagine how I’ll ever get along without them.
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The ceremony itself went incredibly smoothly aside from the occasional rouge beach ball bouncing its way across the graduating class. Principal Stanchi gave her last graduation speech as principal of Carlsbad High, and senior, Maxwell Dana spoke to his fellow classmates about the economics of life and what lies ahead. Other talented students performed “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey, and “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield.
As for the class of 2011, the whole idea of being a real adult still seemed to be sinking in. When I asked several graduates how they felt about it, most of their answers were “it’s pretty unreal,” or “I can’t believe this is actually happening.” There were plenty of hugs, laughter, “we did it” battle cries, and flashing cameras just like any other graduation. But what made this one unique was the amazing people in the graduating class. Everyone, from ASB to those dressed as jedis under their gowns; and there were a few; made the class of 2011 completely unforgettable.
