(TRANSMOUNTAIN EARLY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL -- June 16, 2020) — Day 2 of EPISD’s 2020 Graduation Season kicked off Tuesday with the commencement ceremonies for 87 seniors from TMECHS who crossed the stage as proud graduates of both EPISD and the El Paso Community College.

The Mavericks earned their high-school diplomas and an associate’s degree by attending classes at the college next door.

The class, led by valedictorian Ivan Contreras and salutatorian Jazmine Ramirez, earned $4.7 million in scholarships. Students captured the moment with speeches about overcoming obstacles and persevering, a nod to the class’ motto: “The path from dreams to success does exist. May you have the vision to find it, the courage to get on to it, and the perseverance to follow it” by Kalpana Chawla. 

“This is not the first time obstacles have gotten in our way,” student body president Lorenzo Santellano said. “We were born into this world when 9-11 became a heart-breaking moment in history. As the world was saddened by this tragic event, we brought happiness to our families and brightened them with our accomplishments – from our first words, to our first day in school and to the many life moments we encountered.”

Contreras’ speech continued on the theme. His words echoing hope for the future. 

“We need to remember that anything can be achieved, if we just work hard, put in the effort and persevere. Our teachers and our parents have instilled those character traits in us since we first started school, and those characteristics have helped us get to this moment. The future will, without a doubt, will throw many more adversities our way, but the extra effort and perseverance will help us overcome whatever we face.”

The graduation also featured remarks by Ramirez. Health guidelines in place because of the COVID-19 pandemic forced all EPISD graduations to outdoor venues. TMECHS graduation was at the Franklin High School stadium. 

All TMECHS Boy this year was Min Dong Zhang, who kicked off the ceremony with the Pledge of Allegiance and Texas Pledge. All TMECHS Girl Juana Lidya Gonzalez concluded the ceremony with the turning of the tassels.