GREENFIELD — More than 260 seniors graduated from Greenfield High School last Friday on the high school track.
The June 2 commencement was dedicated to loved ones of the graduates, and also to their loved ones up in heaven.
The event began with slight chilly conditions but warmed as the soon-to-be graduates marched into the playing fields and took their seats on the home and visiting sides. After a rendition of the National Anthem by Maya Avalos, Salutatorian Jimena Hernandez-Tejeda gave her speech, followed by a speech from Valedictorian Elena Garcia-Ayala.
Retiring CSF (California Scholastic Federation) adviser Laurie Mendez then had the Class of 2023 CSF members stand up to be acknowledged by their parents, staff and classmates. Mendez will be retiring after teaching English for 23 years.
Senior class members also gave acknowledgements to the work and efforts of staff and school employees that helped them during this school year. Mendez was presented by Ivan Prado, and retiring teacher and coach Bill Riddell was praised by Hannah Garcia.
Social Studies and former volleyball coach Mark Francis was introduced by Destiny Perez. Francis, a Monterey alumni, will be moving with his wife to Southern California after 10 years at Greenfield High.
“I had many great moments as a teacher, coach and adviser at Greenfield High School,” Francis said. “Being a class adviser for four years was memorable, although we had a tough time during 2020 when Covid-19 began.”
One highlight for him was having the Health and Fitness Club repaint the weightroom. They also worked out in there as a group, even though most of them were not involved in athletics.
“Of course, my years of coaching JV and varsity volleyball were special, and I really enjoyed creating a club program that included students from Vista Verde Middle School,” Francis said. “I will miss Greenfield, but my wife and I plan to return to Monterey County, as we are both from the Monterey and Pacific Grove areas.”
Other staff members who were recognized by the senior class were: Ms. Torres, Mr. Beuzet, Ms. Rodriguez, Ms. Villagomez and Ms. Cynthia Zavala, who did a lot of work organizing this year’s Sober Grad.
Greenfield Principal Janet Sanchez-Matos then presented the Class of 2023 to Superintendent Caroline Cota, who conferred the diplomas. After the graduates received their diplomas, Sanchez-Matos made it official by having them turn their tassels.
As is a Greenfield tradition, the graduates lined up on the home and visiting sidelines and had individuals run down to the end as caps flew in the air in celebration.
