HISD Valedictorians and Salutatorians Honored at Scholars Recognition Ceremony

HISD’s highest achieving high school seniors were acknowledged at the Scholars Recognition Ceremony held at Delmar Fieldhouse on April 30. The event celebrated the valedictorians and salutatorians of the 2023-2024 academic year, recognizing their dedication to academic excellence in front of a supportive audience of peers, family, and educators.

The ceremony commenced with a presentation of colors and the pledge of allegiance by Bellaire High School JROTC, setting a patriotic tone for the event. HISD’s Director of Counseling, Karen Young-Jones, extended a warm welcome to the attendees before Superintendent Mike Miles took the stage to share inspiring words with the graduating seniors. Miles encouraged the students to make a positive impact on the world, stating, “You have a lot to help the world with. For some of you, I say this: fight the fights that need fighting. For others of you, I say: be the change you want to see in the world. For others still, maybe your path is the following: be nice, and love your family.”

At the ceremony, honorees were presented with special medals, symbolizing their growth and transition into the next chapter of their lives. Parents and guardians had the honor of placing these medallions around their scholar’s necks, signifying the culmination of years of hard work and preparation for graduation.

Each HISD high school's principal or representative announced the valedictorians and salutatorians, highlighting their achievements and future educational pursuits. Acxel Campuzano, the valedictorian of Jones Futures Academy, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, “[This honor] means a lot to me because it shows that all of the work that I put in means something and that I earned my place as valedictorian of my school.” When asked about the most challenging aspect of his journey, Campuzano humorously replied, “Physics.”

The event not only celebrated academic excellence but also served as a symbolic sendoff for these accomplished students as they prepare to embark on their next endeavors. The medallions received by the valedictorians and salutatorians will be proudly worn with their caps and gowns during graduation, commemorating their dedication and achievements over the past four years.

For more information on HISD’s upcoming graduation ceremonies in June, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the Class of 2024 webpage.