Pasadena Unified’s Class of 2024: Resilience and Triumph

The auditoriums were electric with anticipation at ach of Pasadena Unified’s Class of 2024 graduation ceremonies as students prepared to take their final steps as high school students. For this year’s resilient graduates, the journey to this moment was far from ordinary. They navigated a global pandemic, adapted to remote learning, and overcame personal obstacles, all while maintaining their commitment to academic excellence and community involvement.

“No matter where you come from or what your background looks like, you can do anything you put your mind into. Don’t let anyone tell you what you’re capable of,” said Carolina Castillejos, the valedictorian of Rose City High School. 

Her words seemed to echo the sentiment of a class that refused to be defined by their circumstances.

The Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2024 with a series of ceremonies held at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium from May 30 to May 31. 

The graduating class included students who earned dual enrollment diplomas and associate degrees from Pasadena City College, National Merit Scholarship finalists, Rose Scholars, Posse Scholars, AP Capstone Diploma candidates, and students from the District’s Dual Language Immersion Program.

Many graduates also earned the Seal of Biliteracy, California State Federation Seal, and were members of the National Honor Society and International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidates. The ceremonies highlighted the resilience and achievements of the students, many of whom overcame significant challenges, including the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I am confident that the life lessons we’ve learned here will continue to impact our future,” said Adeline Peterson, the salutatorian of Pasadena High School, expressing the shared sentiment of many of her fellow graduates. 

Lauren Gray, the valedictorian of John Muir High School, urged her classmates to remember their journey and the community of support that helped them succeed, even in the face of adversity.