High school graduation is often bittersweet. It is a hallmark achievement in life, but it is also a farewell (for now). For the San Clemente High School class of 2015, it was something completely different. Having to deal with a spell of emotionally turbulent bomb threats during their four years, experiencing the loss of a beloved student and enduring the tumults of school board politics that resulted in the expulsion of someone who can only be described as the people’s champ—these are not typical high school memories or expectations. But the day had finally arrived and with it the typical memories and expectations—parents swelling with pride, students giving each other hugs and high-fives, congratulatory festivities and the resounding Triton spirit. The fruits of SCHS class of 2015 labors were ripe. All around Thalassa Stadium people exclaimed delight at the number of valedictorians. The athletic prowess of the Triton community was on its way to glorified heights. Former Principal Michael Halt was in attendance to shake the hands of the students over whom he presided. The student body awarded him as honorary Triton of the Year, an distinction usually reserved for students. It’s hard to immediately see what lasting effects high school had on the class of 2015, but the students have come out intact at the end of a teenage gauntlet. Scholar of Scholars Arthur Huynh said it best in his commencement address: “That kind of grit and fortitude to stand by one another and band together as a community in a time of crisis is our most distinguished quality as a class.” —Eric Heinz
PU SE LLO CT U IO T N
A Hallmark Achievement