Hundreds of Cabrillo High School Jaguars graduated Wednesday at the campus’ football field, many of them holding their caps in place during a humid and windy ceremony.

The ceremony included 416 students who graduated, including 26 students, dressed in white gowns, who earned a GPA of 4.0 and above, one salutatorian, and five valedictorians.

Graduating speaker Jesus Gomez noted in both Spanish and English that his class had a tough year with social isolation and distance learning and finding new ways to stay connected, such as through social media, video games and other hobbies.

“We have persevered through these circumstances all while attending Zoom classes and maintaining other responsibilities,” Gomez said.

Many lives have been lost to COVID-19 and racial injustices, he said, asking the audience to take a moment of silence.

“Whether you decide to go with the flow or grind to the top with your hustle mentality, I know that every one of you will make it to your desired destination in life,” speaker and graduate Reyna Ramo said. “Congratulations again class of 2021. See you at the top.”

The class of 2021 Cabrillo High School graduates sit during their ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
The crowd cheers during the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
Carlos Perez holds a flag with his color guard team before the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
A student’s cap reads “jumping into success” during the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
LBUSD School Board Member Erik Miller speaks during the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
A flag waves during the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
Amber Llaban shows off her medals during the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
Graduates line up for their diplomas at the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
Alofania Nauer hugs a teacher at the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
A student walks to the stage to receive his diploma at the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
A student stands on his chair and cheers toward a crowd during the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
Jesse Otero cries in a man’s arms after graduating at the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.
Heaven Afoa Faumuini is thrown confetti after graduating at the 2021 Cabrillo High School graduation ceremony on Wednesday, June 16, 2021. Photo by Crystal Niebla.