Greenfield’s Class of 2012 graduates

Greenfield High Principal Jim Goddard address the CSF students sitting in the front row during last Saturday’s graduation ceremony. Photo by Daisy Chavez.

GREENFIELD – This year Greenfield celebrated its tenth graduation ceremony since the opening of the school.

During the opening remarks, Principal School Jim Goddard made reference to what a close-knit bunch the graduates of 2012 are. Most of them have been together since pre-school and kindergarten.

To the audience, Goddard said, “They have grown up together. You helped raise them and their success in large part is because of you. “

During his speech, Goddard referenced a quote he found in this year’s yearbook from Jesus Ramirez. Goddard said, “’You don’t remember the day, you remember the moments.’ Years from now, you may not remember today’s day. You may not remember this is beautiful Saturday morning. But, you will certainly remember today’s celebration to commemorate your hard work and dedication each one of you put forth to get here”

The celebration was attended by family members of the graduates, community members and administrators of the school. The stadium was packed to its maximum capacity with people standing along the fences to get a look at the graduates.

This year, Greenfield had two co-valedictorians and a salutatorian.

Coming in just short of valedictorian was Rachel Cherry. After she and her twin sister moved here from Salinas in first grade, Rachel excelled in her academics with a 4.07 GPA.

“I am going to the University of the Pacific in Stockton,” said Cherry. “My sister and I are in the humanitarian three year program.” Cherry has chosen to major in art.

One of the best aspects of high school, Cherry said, is the teachers. “The teachers here are really good. It’s cheesy, but learning was the best part of school. The classes were interesting and the teachers are brilliant.”

Her motivation to continue to achieve academically is her competitive nature. “I like to try to be the best at stuff. It was easy for me most of the time. I like to read and that’s where most of my intelligence comes from,” said Cherry.

Cherry’s sister, Nicole Cherry, is the co-valedictorian, along with Marisela Dominguez coming in with a GPA of 4.2. Nicole Cherry also plans to attend the University of the Pacific three-year Program majoring in studio art and English.

“The art bit was because of my sister,” said Nicole Cherry. “I saw that and I wanted to do it. In my family we have a gaming environment. I am naturally good at writing and I want to go into entertainment. I want to be a concept artist for video games.” Her ambition is to become the person who creates stories and characters for video cames.

Nicole Cherry is also enjoyed the teachers at Greenfield High School. She said, “AP Biology was fun. Mr. Radcliff knows a lot of things and he’s a very passionate teacher." She looks forward to the opportunities college presents.



For the complete article see the 06-06-2012 issue.