Sun Devil pride heated up Newton T. Bass Stadium as 480 graduates from Apple Valley High School received diplomas during its 58th commencement ceremony.
Principal Brian Goodrow welcomed seniors, their loved ones, teachers and staff to the packed-out ceremony on Thursday, May 28, 2026, in Apple Valley.
Wearing orange and white caps and gowns, the seniors braved the cold wind as they recited the Pledge of Allegiance led by Autumn Powers, Benji Cortes and Matthew Varela.
Goodrow followed the tradition of naming graduating seniors, a total of 43 this year, and their parents, who are alumni of Apple Valley High School.
He also shared the names of Summa Cum Laude graduates, which included:
Goodrow said the class of 2026 received $2.3 million in awards and scholarships, with 143 seniors receiving academic or athletic letters.
Commencement Speech
Senior Isaac Hermosillo, who will attend the University of California, Irvine, delivered a lively speech to his fellow classmates.
“Because from here on out, life will be hard, that is something I can guarantee you,” Hermosillo said. “I know for sure life will change for everyone here in some way.”
He added that when facing future obstacles and challenges, remember that they can accomplish all things.
“You being here proves your strength. It proves your willpower. It proves the fact that you are awesome,” Hermosillo said. “It also proves that you can do anything you set your mind to and that you can finish whatever you start.”
Hermosillo said he hoped that his classmates would find comfort in a Bible verse from the Book of Matthew, where Jesus said, “Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.”
Class speakers
Class speakers included Senior Class President Jolene Caballero and ASB Line President Efrain Avila, who collaborated to deliver an inspirational address.
Caballero and Avila thanked family, friends, classmates, teachers and coaches for supporting them through the years.
Caballero told her classmates that many “small moments” made the high school experience meaningful.
Avila encouraged the class to stay true to themselves, take pride in who they are and trust their journeys.
The duo also recognized immigrant families, with Avila saying, “Thank you for your courage to leave behind what was familiar and take a chance on a new beginning in hopes of creating a better future for your children.”
Daily Press reporter Rene Ray De La Cruz may be reached at RDeLaCruz@VVDailyPress.com. Follow him on X @DP_ReneDeLaCruz
This article originally appeared on Victorville Daily Press: Apple Valley High School celebrates 480 Sun Devil graduates
Reporting by Rene Ray De La Cruz, Victorville Daily Press / Victorville Daily Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
