Vanguard Academy graduates second class

MOSES LAKE — Vanguard Academy speaker Gerson Perez said his classmates have proven their strength. 

“Strength isn't always about winning awards or being the best at something. Sometimes strength is simply getting back up when life knocks you down, and sometimes strength is choosing to keep going when nobody would blame you for quitting,” he said.  

Wednesday graduation was the second for Vanguard Academy in Moses Lake, and the first with seniors that had attended the school all four years. Student speaker Alizah Arguelles said it’s been a privilege. 

“We are lucky enough to be the first graduating class to spend all four years at Vanguard Academy. We have watched this school grow, evolve, and create opportunities that have shaped us into the people we are today,” she said. “As most of you know, Vanguard is a project-based school. Our education has never been about sitting in a classroom, memorizing information; it's been about applying what we learn, solving real problems, and turning our ideas into action, and our passion projects prove that they weren't just assignments, they were chances to make a real impact.” 

Staff speaker Jessica Merritt said it wasn’t always easy. 

“Many in this group have been with us since Day One – and let’s be real, guys,” Merritt said. “Day One, Year One – it was rough. But we did it.” 

Vanguard’s program has prepared them for the future, she said.  

“You may not feel ready for adulting and all that life throws at you, but you have been given the tools to figure it out,” Merritt said. 

Arguelles said high school wasn’t always easy, but that’s part of the learning process.  

“I learned some of the most important lessons come from overcoming challenges, adapting to change, and continuing to move forward, even when the path ahead is uncertain. Even though I'm nervous about what lies ahead, those experiences help shape me into the person I am today,” she said. 

Some Vanguard students are headed to college or trade school, some are going to work, others into the military, Perez said. 

“Some of us know exactly where we’re going after today, and some of us are still figuring it out,” he said. “And that’s completely okay. You don’t have to have it all figured out.” 

He expressed gratitude to everyone he’s encountered during his years of growing up.  

“Every person I've met left up left some kind of impact, and I'm grateful for the memories, lessons, and moments we shared along the way,” he said. 

    Vanguard seniors exchange a congratulatory hand slap during graduation.
  

    Vanguard seniors turn their tassels after graduation Wednesday.
  

    Moses Lake School Board member Paul Hill (left) shakes hands with a Vanguard Academy graduate.