FLVS Class of 2021, It’s Your Time to Shine!

This post was presented by 2020-21 FLVS Full Time Senior Class President, Caleb Gutierrez to the graduating Class of 2021.

Hello, class of 2021! First and foremost, I would like to start off by congratulating each and every single one of my graduating classmates. This moment is quite possibly the most important moment for a lot of us standing here. You are here today because of your hard work, dedication, and the countless hours in which you all spent studying and stressing. Now, your commitment to school has finally paid off.

I would like to first give all of the glory to God for bringing me to this moment. I recognize that it is because of Him that I have accomplished all these things. I would also like to personally thank my entire family for their unconditional support and love, as well as my love of my life, Makayla Caton. Lastly, to all my friends for being there for me and the many hours we spent in various clubs and projects – thank you for all of your help and for working together to make FLVS the great school it is. And of course, a huge thank you to all of the amazing teachers and staff that have helped all of us through this incredible journey.

I know that 2020 and 2021 have not been years in which there was much to celebrate, but I am here to remind you that we must never lose hope. Keep your faith, keep your determination, and continue striving to make this world a better place.

Lighting the Way

Now is a changing point in many of our lives as we become adults. We are the future of this planet. Not only will we now have to make a name for ourselves, but the continuation of our planet is now resting in our palms. Always hold true to your values, never give up on your dreams, and continue pressing and pushing forward.

It has been such an incredible honor to serve as your President for the class of 2021 and to have attended FLVS since my Freshman year in high school. I had many wonderful and memorable moments this high school year, both good and bad; although just because something is bad does not mean it cannot be used to be good. Those struggles you face in your lifetime build your character and make you the strong person you are meant to be!

As you enter the workforce and go to your chosen universities, never forget the hard work that is required of you and of your friends and families to help get to where you are at right now. Hold your morals true to your heart, and stand for your God-given rights. In the famous words of The Iron Lady, also known as Margaret Thatcher, “Don’t follow the crowd, let the crowd follow you.”

It is time for our generation to make a true difference in this world. To stand up for what is just, what is good, and what is right. Be that positive change in the world – have a soft heart, be kind, always be humble, and in everything be grateful. That is the greatest piece of advice I could ever give you.

I want to leave you with one last statement that is from the late President Ronald Reagen, “live simply, love generously, care deeply, speak kindly, and leave the rest to God.”

Congratulations to the class of 2021, it has been an honor to serve all of you, may you do great things and I look forward to seeing the great accomplishments on the horizon for everyone here.

Congratulations, FLVS Class of 2021! 
View the full ceremony recognizing our graduates at https://www.flvs.net/classof2021.