School’s Out for Summer!

By John Earp

After a flurry of end-of-the-year activities, graduations, and awards ceremonies, the 2025-2026 school year has officially been completed as of today. The Jal High School will hold its high school graduation ceremony in the auditorium Friday evening at 7:00 p.m., with 37 students graduating. Coach Ross has been chosen by the senior class as their commencement speaker.

This past Tuesday, Jal Elementary School held its 2026 Kindergarten graduation ceremony and its “moving on” ceremony for Pre-K. The speaker for the Kindergarten graduation were Michelle Lopez, with Laura Soliz translating into Spanish. Announcers were Michelle Lopez and Kristi Sauceda. Principal Karen Komar was the speaker for the Pre-K graduation, with Deina Inglet translating into Spanish.

Tuesday evening in the Junior High Gymnasium, the annual Sports Banquet was held, with student-athletes receiving awards for their contributions in Jal High School sports. Athletic Director Gary Simmons emceed the banquet. Food was provided by Iron Horse Sports Grille, and included spicy red and green enchiladas and an absolutely scrumptious brisket pot roast. Each coach who was present gave out the various awards to their respective athletes, with some giving several-minute speeches about their athletes, making the ceremony a real contender for a record in length, at just under three h0urs.

Wednesday, Jal Schools held its annual Field Day, with fun and games provided for students and parents.