Clovis High School Graduation

Clovis High School Class of 2015

By the time we arrived in Fresno on Thursday afternoon, temperatures had warmed to the low eighties, very pleasant for this time of year when 100F is not uncommon. We had a lovely dinner prepared by Mary, with hamburgers grilled by Tyler, before heading out to graduation ceremonies at Clovis High School (CHS). This is an outdoor event at the football stadium, "home of the Cougars", but the bleachers were already filled by the time we arrived an hour early.


Clovis High School Class of 2015

Mary found us seats on the field in very uncomfortable stacking chairs, still better than the standing room only that awaited Chris, John and the boys an hour later. I wondered how we would make it through the event, knowing from previous attendance at graduations that they can really drag on.


Mary, Mitch, Tyler, Bob, Chris, Adam

I was wrong. The CHS model is a good one: appropriate recognition for academic achievement and individuals, both students and faculty, with a leadership role, followed by a speedy but respectful reading of the graduates' names. The band and choir performed several pieces of music, all very polished and entertaining.

The speakers were brief and they all had something positive to say about the high school experience and their hopes for the future. After closing fireworks -- spectacular and professional -- attendees gathered in the baseball field to meet with our graduates.

I was very impressed. Clovis High School students are justifiably proud of their school. We, of course, are very proud of our own Tyler Scott Norman. It was a wonderful evening to remember.