“We did it,” roared one of Santa Barbara High School’s newest graduates, just before the principal was prepared to introduce them to the crowd.
On Wednesday, parents, family and friends gathered at Peabody Stadium to watch the class of 2026 take the field for the last time.
In a ceremony filled with movie quotes, some tears, and an unending number of beach balls, students thanked their teachers and encouraged each other as they prepare for life after high school.
Ethan Bimbela, the senior class president, told the crowd he was going to miss football games, Derby Days, or just the stress of figuring out his class schedule. He said he would also miss the teachers who supported them through their four years at the school.
He ended his speech by encouraging his classmates to take a second look at the people next to them.
“These are the people who grew up alongside you and watched your awkward phases, your best memories, and journeys,” Bimbela said. “And despite everything, we made it. With all this said, congratulations, Class of 2026.”
Rocio Vejar Montor and Blake Johnson also gave commencement speeches.
Before he began handing out diplomas, Principal Ed Gomez told the students he wanted to flip the script and told them to do something they were told not to do in school.
He asked them to take out their phones and text someone.
Gomez asked the students to text someone who helped them during their time at the school and helped them get to where they are today.
“None of us arrive at a milestone like this in our lives without a profound debt of gratitude to the people who supported us, challenged us, encouraged us, and believed in us along the way,” Gomez said.
He continued by asking the students to live their lives with an attitude of gratitude. Gomez warned students about focusing on the next goal or milestone, telling them they do not need a future achievement to feel successful or happy.
Gomez also told the students that as they prepare to leave for college and careers, they may experience the isolation of independence. He encouraged them to deepen their connections with their families and friends.
“As you leave Santa Barbara High School, carry your ambition with you, pursue your dreams relentlessly, strive for excellence,” Gomez said. “But along the way, never lose your gratitude. Because a grateful heart not only makes life richer, it makes life better.”
Have a graduate you’d like to celebrate?
Noozhawk invites families, friends and graduates to share their academic achievements with our community. Click here to submit a graduation announcement to our Class of 2026 Section.
