Record-breaking Cleveland ISD graduation: 641 seniors and $5 million in scholarships

On Friday, May 24, the M.O. Campbell Educational Center in Aldine was abuzz with excitement as Cleveland ISD celebrated its largest graduation ceremony to date.

The Class of 2024, comprising a record-breaking 641 seniors, proudly marked the culmination of their high school journeys. This milestone event was further distinguished by an unprecedented distribution of scholarships, totaling $5,027,590. Valedictorian Oscar Sosa alone was awarded a staggering $1.08 million in scholarships, highlighting the remarkable achievements and bright futures of this year’s graduates.

Superintendent Stephen McCanless expressed his pride in this year’s graduating class by saying, “As superintendent of Cleveland ISD, I am honored to have been in the presence of this 2024 graduating class. Shaking the hand of each scholar and seeing the optimistic, encouraging smile on their faces as they take the next step in their successful life, assured me that these graduates are going to do great things in life. It is an honor to serve as Superintendent of Schools in Cleveland ISD.”

In his speech at the graduation ceremony, Sosa reflected on his personal journey and growth, acknowledging the importance of the support systems that have helped him and his fellow graduates succeed.

“Thank you for your endless love, encouragement, and belief in us. The sacrifices each of you have made are the reasons we are able to walk across this stage and celebrate this huge achievement,” he said.

Sosa shared his childhood ambitions of becoming a professional basketball player, attending Harvard, and being the valedictorian, which initially filled him with pride and arrogance. However, a turning point came during his freshman year at Cleveland ISD when the pandemic caused his grades to slip, leading to a sense of emptiness. Reflecting on this period, he realizes it was the best challenge he faced, as it shifted his focus from individual achievements to shared experiences with classmates and teachers.

He highlighted the significant relationships he built with teachers like Ms. Parada and Mr. Norman, staff members like Ms. Felicia and Ms. Maria, and his friends.

Sosa expressed gratitude for the community that uplifted him, saying, “At Cleveland, I was viewed as so much more than just a nerd; I was seen as a friend, companion, someone trustworthy, and someone genuinely liked for being myself.”

Sosa recounted his journey to becoming valedictorian, a childhood dream that had faded but was revived when he learned he was in the running for the position. He described his initial excitement and subsequent disappointment upon achieving the title, realizing it didn’t bring the fulfillment he expected.

Quoting the singer Drake, he said, “Sometimes it’s the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination…Cause all of the experiences that you went through, are the reason that you are who you are today.”

He said that the true reward lies not in the title of valedictorian but in the memories, experiences, and relationships formed during high school, adding, “The accolades and honors are mere symbols, but the invaluable lessons, friendships, and personal growth we’ve achieved will remain etched in our hearts.”

Sosa ended by encouraging his classmates to cherish their shared experiences and to believe in their unique talents and potential.

“We stand together today, united by the shared experiences of high school. As we get ready to move on to new adventures, let’s take with us the important lessons, happy memories, and lifelong friendships we made together,” he said. “Congratulations again, my fellow graduates.”

In her speech, Cleveland ISD Salutatorian Sana Bham highlighted the growth and shared experiences of her and her classmates. She began by reminiscing about their elementary school days, comparing high school to a blend of expected and unexpected experiences, likening it to a mix of challenges and cherished moments shared with friends.

She emphasized the significant role that her family, friends, and favorite staff members, particularly Ms. Clark and Ms. Shack, played in her life. Bham shared how Ms. Clark, the school librarian, became a mentor and friend, stating, “Ms. Clark has never failed to make me feel valued and important. I want to be Ms. Clark when I grow up.”

She also credited Ms. Shack, her English teacher, for making her feel understood and respected, noting, “In her class, I know I’m respected and appreciated.”

Sana underscored the importance of small actions and their lasting impact, mentioning how people remember traits and interactions from years ago. She encouraged her peers to recognize their potential to make a difference, stating, “We all have the power and ability to impact and better the world, step by step, just by walking in the right direction.”

Looking forward, Sana expressed her anticipation for college at A&M while cherishing high school memories, from cafeteria moments to boba shop adventures. She concluded by acknowledging the different paths her classmates will take.

“Though we are all on our own now, we’re still all looking up at the same sky… we will always be connected through our shared experiences at Cleveland High School,” she said.

More photos from Cleveland’s graduation ceremony: