Senior High School Department’s Pre-graduation ball highlights a meaningful purpose as the proceeds of the party can help grade 12 students by giving away free graduation fee vouchers to selected students.
The voucher worth P2,800 is given to students who exert their effort in performing and dressing the best they can during the graduation ball. The SHS department also raffled vouchers and gave to selected students.
Hershe Anne Cunanan among the receiver of the free graduation fee voucher said it is the first time she attended an extravagant ball after the pandemic lockdown. It was also a memorable experience because after enjoying the party she got a special gift for her parents which is a voucher.
“Honestly, I wasn’t anticipating winning such a prize because what are the odds right? My world stopped for a moment and I almost didn’t believe it. I thought I just misheard my name but winning a voucher just somehow eased the financial burden that I have and I am always gonna be thankful for the SHS Admin for it,” she said.
Assistant Principal Camilo Lacanlale said that giving free graduation fee vouchers instead of cash gifts during the party is an excellent way of acknowledging the financial challenges that many students face. The initiative also shows HCC’s commitment to supporting students who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and helps to eliminate financial barriers.
“The SHS department recognizes that some students may be academically competent but are unable to meet the financial requirements of graduation. Therefore, by providing free graduation fee vouchers, the department ensures that every student can graduate, regardless of their financial circumstances,” Lacanlale said.
“Giving free graduation fee vouchers instead of cash gifts during the Pre-Graduation Party of Holy Cross College is an excellent idea that aligns with the institution’s core values of Caritas,” he added.
This year’s party was requested by students as they want to celebrate their achievements before graduation with their classmates. After two years of distance learning due to the pandemic, this is the time they got to meet and socialize with their fellow students.
“Many students have missed out on social and celebratory events, which can be important for marking significant milestones and fostering a sense of community and belonging. By organizing a pre-graduation ball, SHS admin may be seeking to provide students with a meaningful and memorable experience to cap off their senior high school years and gather together one last time before moving on to the next phase of their lives,” the assistant principal said.
The pre-graduation party became the perfect opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of the graduating students throughout their academic journey. With good music, the students filled the quadrangle with applause as they showcase their talent in singing and dancing.
“The two most memorable moments of the night would be our dance (discotillion) and the party dance where all students dance together. I was accompanied by amazing dancers from other sections. After being announced as the winner of the best performer, I was just in total shock. I also felt so honored and happy,” Emmanuel Dela Peña said.
Building and creating a sense of community is also among the main objectives of the ball that brought students, faculty, and staff together to create a sense of belongingness among those who have been part of the student’s journey.
In addition to showcasing the talents of students, the party became also a platform to display the beauty and wit of students as they dress in their suits and dress. The pre-graduation party emphasizes freedom and independence as the school provides students with a safe and secure environment to express themselves.
“It’s very exciting, fun, and memorable because it’s my first time attending that kind of event my most memorable experience during the party is being chosen as king of the night. I feel proud, happy, and confident,” Justine Samson said.
Here’s the list of winners during the SHS Pre-graduation ball.
King of the Night – Justine Samson
Queen of the Night – Abigail Gonzales
Star of the Night – Joseph Castro and Claire Samson
Face of the Night – Joseph Andrei Rueda and Maria DJ Avril P. Manansala
Best Dressed – Kyle Ihzen Tolentino and Claire Ann Flores
Performer of the Night – Emmanuel Dela Pena and Engella Kate P. Galang