GUSTINE — Gustine Middle School’s eighth-grade class marked its graduation June 4 with a ceremony that honored student growth, friendships, school spirit, family support and the milestone of stepping into high school.

The evening brought together graduates, families, teachers and community members as students reflected on their middle school years and looked ahead to what comes next. Through speeches and awards, the ceremony emphasized that success is shaped not only by academics, but by character, kindness, service and the memories students carry with them.

ASB President Angelica Escareno opened the night with a speech that blended humor, gratitude and reflection. Speaking to parents, classmates, teachers and friends, she thanked everyone who supported the Class of 2026.

“This is a very important night of our lives,” Escareno said, adding that graduation was not just about receiving a diploma, but about looking back and being proud of the journey. She recalled the nerves of sixth grade, the challenge of making new friends and the small moments that helped shape the class.

“As we move forward, some of us have a clear plan and some of us are still trying to figure things out,” she said. “Both of these are completely fine.”

Her message to classmates was simple: keep growing, keep learning and believe in yourself even when the answers don’t come right away.

“So to the Class of 2026, this is only the beginning,” she said. “Don’t ever give up, work hard and dream big.”

Students also shared their favorite middle school memories. • Nuno Dematos Jr. remembered being pushed off a chair during a spirited Battle of Kahoot in sixth grade. He said he looks forward to “making memories with friends and making more videos” in high school. • Eliab Zavala said middle school was memorable because of “making friends and memories,” and he is most excited about “graduating” from high school. • Perla Solano said she enjoyed “meeting new friends and learning new things from my teachers,” and looks forward to “having more friends, learning new things and having fun in my classes.” • Gael Hermosillo-Gomez said his favorite memories were “making new friends,” and he hopes to join clubs and make more memories in high school. • Jessica Swift recalled the humor and energy of Mr. Beaver’s class. She said she is excited to join ASB in high school and “create new ideas.”

Graduate Marshall Cory delivered the ceremony’s main address, reflecting on the class’s journey from sixth grade to promotion night. He recalled sixth-grade camp in the snow, making slime in seventh grade and fun moments in Mr. Beaver’s class. Cory thanked teachers including Ms. Hazen and Mr. Mitchell, and offered heartfelt appreciation to his parents for their support.

“And thank you to everyone who has supported me in getting to high school,” Cory said. “It is truly amazing.”

Several awards were presented throughout the evening: • American Legion School Award — Eliab Zavala Zavala and Kimberly Roque • Ceferino Jamero Music Award — Marshall Cory • Dale Mead Sportsmanship Award — Jose Limon-Gonzalez • Katherine Cayson Sportsmanship Award — Jezabelle Barrera Guzman and Giselle Barrera Guzman • Face of GMS Award — Angelica Escareno-Tovar, recognized for leadership, service and positivity • Gustine-Romero Teachers Association Graduation Award — Camila Tovar, including a $50 scholarship • Lion’s Club Scholarship Award — Jose Limon Gonzalez and Arianna Garcia Elizalde, for highest GPA in the class

The ceremony closed with cheers, photos and hugs — a celebration not only of what students accomplished, but of who they have become and the bright paths ahead of them.