Graduation arrived for seniors at Ripon High.

The experiences of the past four years were far from Disney’s High School Musical or Nickelodeon’s VICTORiOUS.

Salutatorian Avery Redula made a reference to both musicals in her speech on her image of high school prior to her freshman year.

Of course, it was anything but.

At the May 27 special gathering, she and her classmates, instead, recalled having to adjust during their unusual high school years, from a regular classroom setting as freshmen, to stay-at-home / distance learning as sophomores, to the various COVID-19 safety protocols as juniors, and to a return to a somewhat normal setting just in time for their senior year.

Valedictorian Anthony Sausedo, who competed in the CIF State Track & Field meet in Clovis, representing the Indians in the 300 hurdles, said via his pre-recorded speech that it was “an unforgettable four years.”

He was thankful of this past year, crediting his involvement in basketball, track and leadership for helping shape him – through work and competition – and creating great friendships.

Principal Keith Rangel praised members of the Class of 2022 for their “determination and grit” through it all. They kept at it, he said, accomplishing their goal while receiving their diplomas.

Senior Vice President Emma Phelps, who welcomed those who filled the Stouffer Field grandstand and bleachers, added that it was back in 2019 when she and the classmates began their journey to get to this point – graduation.

"We are here," Phelps said.