Nearly 2,000 Santa Maria-area high school students flipped their tassels during graduation ceremonies Thursday that included packed stands and excited friends and family members.
Four graduations were held for students in the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District.
At Pioneer Valley High School, 603 students graduated. The number was an even 500 for Righetti High School, 519 at Santa Maria High School and 310 for Delta High School.
Erica Diazcervantes, Pioneer Valley High School Valedictorian, said, "I never really planned, you know, to always be the top of my class. I just plan to work hard, you know, see where that gets me and here I am, so I’m proud that I’m here."
The graduations were spaced out throughout the day, giving many friends and family the opportunity to attend more than one ceremony if needed.
Other graduations taking place Thursday include Templeton High School and Lompoc High School.
