Dr. Nita White, Superintendent, The Varnett Public School
Ms. Gayle Voltz, Director, East campus
Jose Gamez, Class Valedictorian Speech (top photo, right)
Dr. Nita White, Ms. Voltz, teachers, Varnett staff, family members of the graduates, ladies and gentlemen, good morning! It gives me a great honor and pleasure today to speak in front of you as the class Valedictorian.
To my family, you decided to start me off in the right direction by enrolling me in the Varnett Public School. I came to Varnett in first grade. I had my Pre-k and Kindergarten in El Salvador. Here, I gained a strong foundation. Thank you, my dear parents, for always supporting me throughout my elementary education. I love you!
Teachers, thank you for pushing me to do my best. As I have mentioned, I came to Varnett in first grade. On my first year here in Varnett, my teacher and classmates welcomed me with open arms. My language barrier was conquered easily as the years progressed and with everyone's help. Teachers, you never allowed me to settle for less. Your kind words and loving heart will not be forgotten.
To my classmates, “Well, we did it!” You did not allow anyone to stop our learning. Our teachers taught us that education is not only a commitment, it is one that carries great Pride! This is why I believe each of us will experience new opportunities to continue to grow and learn new skills that we will carry with us for the rest of our lives. Today’s accomplishment is a foundation that will help us find our unique place in the world. A place that only we can fill. As we set off for new horizons, let's listen to our hearts and follow our dreams. Surely, success will follow.
Thank you and congratulations, Class of 2023!
Hollins Jones, Salutatorian Speech (top photo, left)
Dr. Nita White, Ms. Voltz, teachers, Varnett staff and family members of the 5th Grade 2022-2023 class. Ladies and ladies and gentlemen, good morning. It gives me great pleasure to be able to deliver this speech as your class Salutatorian.
To my family, thank you for enrolling me in The Varnett Public School. This educational foundation will carry me throughout the many years ahead.
Teachers, there are not enough words that can explain your time, patience, kindness, and most of all your love. I have been here since Pre-K, so it's been seven years now. By the way, thank you for the Loyalty Award. Because of you teachers, I am ready for middle school.
To my classmates, looking back on our daily classwork was what we made of it. For two years we learned differently because of the pandemic. We learned from home with our parents' support. When we came back to classrooms last year, we made adjustments and we did it.
I’ve made a commitment and I challenge you to do the same. I’ve committed to rising and thriving in education until I finish college. Won’t you join me….
Speeches provided by Ms. Eugenia DeLara, fifth- and sixth-grade teacher