CITY OF INDUSTRY – Hacienda La Puente Unified’s Class of 2023 graduates paraded across the stadium stages bedecked in school colors, exchanging handshakes with distinguished guests and receiving their diplomas amidst enthusiastic cheers from their families during high-energy commencement ceremonies on May 16 and 18.

The District honored nearly 1,300 graduates from its four comprehensive high schools and alternative high school. Valley, William Workman and La Puente high schools held their ceremonies on May 16, followed by Glen A. Wilson and Los Altos high schools on May 18.

The festivities included stirring solo vocal and instrumental performances, motivational speeches from valedictorians, salutatorians and leadership students and closing remarks from Board President Christine H. Salazar.

“On behalf of the entire Board of Education, I would like to say what an immense joy and honor it is to celebrate this important milestone and recognize our students’ vast achievements with the greater community,” Salazar said. “At Hacienda La Puente Unified, we believe students, parents, staff and the District community have a shared responsibility to ensure all students meet high learning standards and I’d like to thank each and every one of you for your unwavering support as we strive to maximize the talents, interests and abilities of all our students.”

During the ceremonies, principals invited graduates who received the School Scholar Award, given to students with a 3.5 GPA or higher, the District Scholar Award, presented to students with a 3.8 GPA or higher, and the California State Seal of Biliteracy Award to stand and receive a round of applause from the audience.

Students were also awarded thousands of dollars in local and national scholarships for their academic, athletic and civic achievements during the school’s annual “Senior Awards Nights” held May 9 and 11. Hacienda La Puente Unified Class of 2023 graduates will continue their educational journey at more than 170 esteemed colleges and four-year universities starting fall of 2024.

For the grand finale, several schools participated in teacher tunnels to congratulate students as they exited the arena, while others continued their traditions, blasting lively music and inviting families to dance and celebrate with students on the stadium fields. Each ceremony concluded with the sounds of leadership students leading their peers and attendees to participate in their school chants one last time.

“This group of remarkable scholars have shown great determination, resilience and heart over the past four years, navigating their academic careers, excelling in extracurricular activities and setting a positive example for younger HLPUSD students,” Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez said. “I am beyond proud of our graduating students and hope they will one day give back to the Hacienda La Puente Unified community and share their success stories with future generations. We wish you success in your college and career endeavors. Congratulations, Class of 2023!”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:
HLPUSD_COMMENCEMENTCEREMONIES1: La Puente High School teachers cheer on future graduates as they walk to their seats at the commencement ceremony on May 16.

HLPUSD_COMMENCEMENTCEREMONIES2: Los Altos High School graduating scholars celebrate earning their diplomas during a commencement ceremony on May 18.

HLPUSD_COMMENCEMENTCEREMONIES3: Hacienda La Puente Unified Board President Christine H. Salazar congratulates a William Workman High School Class of 2023 graduate during a commencement ceremony on May 16.

HLPUSD_COMMENCEMENTCEREMONIES4: Glen A. Wilson High School’s newest graduates celebrate their accomplishments with the Wildcat community on May 18.