Central High School Graduates 647 Students at Ceremony

SAN ANGELO, TX — San Angelo ISD congratulates the Central High School Class of 2025 future-ready graduates. The CHS graduation ceremony celebrating 647 graduating students was held Saturday morning, May 24, 2025 at the Angelo State University Junell Center/Stephens Arena. 

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from CHS Principal Jill Ross, setting the stage for a morning filled with pride and celebration. The CHS JROTC presented and posted the colors, followed by a stirring performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” by the senior members of the Bobcat Choir. Carley Martinez and Marisol Martinez led the national and Texas pledges, and Nathaniel Palos delivered the invocation.

Ross also introduced the distinguished guests in attendance, including SAISD Board of Trustees Dr. Taylor Kingman, Mrs. Ami Mizell-Flint, Mr. Gerard Gallegos, Mr. Bill Dendle, Dr. Kyle Mills, Mrs. Pam Duncan and former Single Member District 2 Trustee Mrs. Lupita Arroyo. Representing district leadership were Superintendent Dr. Christopher Moran, along with Dr. Farrah Gomez, Dr. Merl Brandon, Dr. Raelye Self, Dr. Jason Skelton, Mr. Michael Kalnbach and Mrs. Shannon Schwartz. 

Following Mrs. Ross's introductions, SAISD Superintendent of Schools Dr. Moran addressed the class. “It’s a great day in San Angelo ISD and Central High School. Congratulations to the graduating Class of 2025 – you’ve made it to the start line,” Dr. Moran said. “I’d like to leave you with a few thoughts as you begin your journey in this life.”

Dr. Moran shared three guiding principles for life beyond high school with the Class of 2025: build strong roots, make wise choices, and set clear priorities. Drawing inspiration from the towering Redwood and Sequoia trees of California and their interconnected root systems, Dr. Moran highlighted how the shallow yet widespread root systems of Redwoods thrive through connection – reminding students of the strength found honesty and integrity, and surrounding oneself with a supportive community. He urged graduates to learn from the mistakes of others and to understand the importance of timing in decision-making. Lastly, Dr. Moran challenged the class to live intentionally, focusing on what truly matters. He closed with words of pride and encouragement, sending the Class of 2025 into their next chapter with confidence and a sense of purpose. “Give it your best, pray that it’s blessed, let God take care of the rest. If you have strong roots, you make great choices with clear priorities, you will live a great life.” 

The class valedictorian, Alvina Shaik, followed with a heartfelt speech. “I have been honored to grow alongside each one of you, not only as students but as people,” she said. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals who played a role in the graduates’ success. She acknowledged the support of family, friends, teachers and administrators, recognizing each group’s impact on their journey.

To the school’s leadership, she said, “Thank you for your unwavering dedication, guidance, and for creating an environment where learning can truly thrive. Your leadership has shaped not only our academic journeys but also the values we carry forward.” 

Turning to her teachers, Alvina offered deep appreciation, “I can extend only the most heartfelt gratitude. Thank you for challenging us, supporting us and standing by us for the last four years. … You have shaped who we are as people. Thank you, all, for pushing us when we needed it, lifting us when we fell and for celebrating every small win along the way.” 

Quoting Sir Isaac Newton she added, ‘If I have seen further, it is by standing on the shoulders of giants.’ I am grateful, every day, that I have the most supportive giants in the world. It is because of these people that I have never been scared to pursue my goals. I know that no matter how far I go, they will always be right next to me, cheering me on.”

She closed by expressing her appreciation to her family for their love, sacrifice and unwavering support. “I would not be the person I am without you,” she said. “I know that the words, ‘thank you’ cannot begin to express the gratitude I feel for all of the ways that you have supported me. I hope you know that every success that I celebrate, carries a piece of your dedication, your patience and your belief in me.” 

Mrs. Ross and Mrs. Duncan then presented the graduating class to Dr. Moran, who accepted the graduates. CHS administrators then presented diplomas to the graduating class.. 

The 2025 CHS graduation ceremony closed with a benediction from salutatorian Juan Jeong. “I wish to remind everyone of the tremendous support we have behind our backs, and how prepared we are for what awaits us in the future,” he said. “It is the support, the guidance and the challenges that shaped you to your unique self and led you to this very moment. When nothing was going your way, it was your family, your teachers and your friends who stood by your side. They are the ones who made those times bearable. And when it was going your way, they were the ones who cheered you on and guided you to keep your boat sailing smoothly.” 

He urged his classmates to move forward with confidence. “Even if you do not know what your next step should be, every challenge you’ve overcome and every decision you’ve made has prepared you to face the future,” Jeong said. “I hope you will take your next steps with confidence, knowing that there will always be someone who will support you in any direction you take.”

The class then shared one last singing of the CHS School Song and “sic ‘em cats” led by the Top 10 graduates before tossing their caps and celebrating with families and friends. 

The full livestream recording of the Central High School graduation ceremony is available below: