Anzar High School's mighty class of 2008 on Friday left a precedent-setting legacy, as all 82 graduates plan to attend college in the fall.
Principal Charlene McKowen opened a graduation ceremony marked by the school's emphasis on individuality by announcing the group's feat.
Tying together the theme after the 90-minute ceremony, as if their story needed an appropriately crafted finish, Athletic Director Chris Wardlaw praised the perfect college entrance rate and told the crowd he'd never heard or read anywhere that an entire graduating class had college plans.
"I can't tell you how proud I am to be a part of these students' lives," Wardlaw said.
Along the lines with the school's focus on student independence, the ceremony opened with the tradition of having each graduate walk in while a song of their choice plays.
Student speakers talked how their experiences prepared them for the next step, how the last four years had developed their outlook on life. One student, Jedidiah Horca, played his guitar and sang a song, to which he received a rousing ovation.
Adam Gonzales told his classmates he considers them family.
"That's how close I've come to know you guys," he said. "These last four years have made you what you are today."
Charlene Rich said the school taught her about compassion, dreaming, respect and individuality.
"Without the school and without all my wonderful teachers, I wouldn't be as ready as I am today," Rich said during her speech.
Ariana Mazer said the school allowed her to break out of "her shell."
"We, students and teachers alike, have been given an amazing environment to learn and teach," Mazer said.
Added Mazer, "I'm ready to get out of here."
Marcel Garza spoke to the crowd in both English and Spanish.
"At Anzar, we were taught to never accept failure and always strive for the best," she said.
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Anzar class gets perfect mark
