Hacienda La Puente Unified Celebrates Class of 2024 with High-Spirited Commencement Ceremonies

Hacienda La Puente Unified celebrated its Class of 2024 graduates during five vibrant commencement ceremonies on May 21 and 23, with District representatives proudly presenting diplomas to the graduates, who were donned in their caps and gowns, as the atmosphere was filled with anticipation and pride.

The District honored nearly 1,200 graduates from its four comprehensive high schools and alternative high school. Valley, William Workman and La Puente high schools held their ceremonies on May 21, followed by Glen A. Wilson and Los Altos high schools on May 23.

The festivities included stirring solo vocal and instrumental performances, motivational speeches from valedictorians, salutatorians, and leadership students, acceptance by Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez, and conferral and closing remarks from Board President Christine H. Salazar.

"On behalf of the entire Board of Education, I want to congratulate our promoting and graduating Class of 2024 on reaching this significant milestone," Salazar said. "As we heard during each ceremony, this class was the last graduating class affected by the pandemic during their high school years. You all experienced your first year of high school online and showed great resilience and unity as you returned to campuses for your sophomore year. We are immensely proud of all your successes and wish you the best of luck in all your future endeavors."

During the ceremonies, principals invited graduates who received the School Scholar Award, given to students with a 3.5 GPA or higher, the District Scholar Award, presented to students with a 3.8 GPA or higher, and the California State Seal of Biliteracy Award to stand and receive a round of applause from the audience. Graduates joining the United States Armed Forces also received recognition alongside veteran teachers, staff, and audience members.

After last school year's success in including alma mater support, the District welcomed elementary and middle school principals to participate in the ceremonies. Principals exchanged high-fives and fist bumps with students, celebrating the graduates' journey from elementary to high school.

For the grand finale, Glen A. Wilson and William Workman high schools continued their longstanding tradition, singing and performing their alma mater songs alongside graduates and school staff. La Puente High School graduates threw their caps in the air, celebrated with peers, and eagerly exited the field to see their families.

Valley Alternative High School’s community celebrated with photo opportunities and balloon arches outside the community center. Los Altos High School surprised students with a dazzling fireworks display, filling the night sky with bursts of color and light. Each ceremony concluded with the sounds of leadership students leading their peers and attendees to participate in their school chants one last time.

Hacienda La Puente Unified Class of 2024 graduates boast academic, athletic, and civic achievements, and will continue their educational journey at more than 150 esteemed colleges and four-year universities.

“This group of remarkable scholars has shown great determination, resilience, and heart over the past four years, navigating their academic careers, excelling in extracurricular activities, and setting a positive example for younger HLPUSD students,” Jiménez said. “I am beyond proud of our graduating students and hope they will one day give back to the Hacienda La Puente Unified community and share their success stories with future generations. We wish you nothing but success in your college and career endeavors. Congratulations, Class of 2024!”

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

HLPUSD_GRADUATION1: Los Altos High School Class of 2024 graduates celebrate their most recent accomplishment in front of a crowd of nearly 6,000 attendees during a commencement ceremony on May 23.

HLPUSD_GRADUATION2: Glen A. Wilson High School Class of 2024 graduate Emily Axelrod celebrates her accomplishment during a commencement ceremony on May 23.

HLPUSD_GRADUATION3: La Puente High School graduates receive alma mater support and a handshake from principal Dr. Lisa Lopez after receiving their diploma during a commencement ceremony on May 21. 

HLPUSD_GRADUATION4: William Workman High School Class of 2024 graduate Emmanuel Solorzano delivers a lively speech during a commencement ceremony on May 21.

HLPUSD_GRADUATION5: Superintendent Dr. Alfonso Jiménez congratulates a Valley Alternative High School graduate during a commencement ceremony on May 21.