The graduates marched into the Palm Beach County Fairgrounds at 8 a.m. sharp on Graduation Day. They had arrived nearly two hours earlier and were nervously waiting for their big entrance.

Wearing their red and black gowns, the graduates walked side-by-side and quickly down the aisles, past family and friends who had waited a dozen years for this day. Graduation was held for the second year at the fairgrounds and there seemed to be enough room and parking for everyone invited.  Each graduate received eight tickets.

After speeches from Dr. Weigel and Palm Beach County Superintendent Wayne Gent, this year’s valedictorian, Evelyn Ross took the stage with her speech. She pointed out that she was the first female, African-American valedictorian in Santaluces’ history. She listed her many accomplishments and talked about the hard work it took to get to that stage on graduation day. After Ross’ speech, Salutatorian Jorge Aguilar gave his inspiring speech, asking the graduating class to create a better world through tolerance and acceptance. Graduates then received their diplomas, each walking across the stage, shaking hands with school district dignitaries including Gent and former Santaluces principal Mrs. Orloff.

In just over an hour, the ceremony was over and the Class of 2013 had their official diplomas in hand. Most mulled outside the entrance, taking pictures with family, friends and now-former teachers. Congratulations and good luck Class of 2013.