Back Bay/Monte Vista High School let the 2022 Bulldogs out

The Bulldogs are out, and they are doing just fine.

Back Bay/Monte Vista High School, a continuation school with an independent study program for students overcoming setbacks that can affect their academic success, held its graduation ceremony at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church near Newport Harbor High School on Thursday morning, celebrating the class of about 110.

About 60 are from Back Bay and 50 are from Monte Vista.

Back Bay High’s Cheila Fuentes acknowledges two of her teachers after receiving her diploma during Back Bay/Monte Vista High School’s Class of 2022 commencement ceremony at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on Thursday.

(Kevin Chang / Staff Photographer)

Remarks were delivered by student speakers Yeraldine Avalos and Angel Hernandez.

Gowns of red were strewn throughout the audience. While parents and family members looked on with pride, students waved and cheered with their diplomas in hand.

A slideshow depicted the students’ last year at their high school before final remarks were made, mortarboards flew and congratulations were had.

Seniors laugh and applaud after watching “The Year in Pictures” slideshow presentation during Back Bay/Monte Vista commencement ceremony at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church.

(Kevin Chang / Staff Photographer)

“Graduates, you are amazing!” said Principal Mike Wagner in a prepared statement. “The staff as well as your families and myself are so proud of you for never giving up when things didn’t turn out exactly as planned.

“As young adults looking to carve your way, keep your eyes open for those hidden opportunities to turn adversity into success. We are excited about your future endeavors and wish prosperity on you all.”

Back Bay High’s Angel Hernandez speaks during Back Bay/Monte Vista High School’s Class of 2022 commencement ceremony at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church on Thursday in Newport Beach.

(Kevin Chang / Staff Photographer)

Support our coverage by becoming a digital subscriber.