Apollo graduates inspire
By Robin Nasby Special to the Acorn

BILL SPARKES/Acorn Newspapers ACHIEVEMENT- Andrew Garcia celebrates while Millie Reina of the Simi Valley Woman's Club presents a scholarship to Jessica Hernandez at the Apollo High School graduation exercises held June 21 at the campus of the continuation school.

"You made it."

As Principal Tracy Rohlfing uttered those three words last week, Apollo High's 50-member class of 2007 cheered and applauded, many of the graduates taking the opportunity to reflect on the unique- and often challenging- journeys that led up to that moment of accomplishment.

"Apollo changed my life," said graduation speaker Francisco Villa, a class salutatorian. "It's been a great opportunity to continue our journey in education."

The valedictorian, James Armstrong, couldn't attend the ceremony because he's already serving in the military. Graduating early and choosing to enlist promptly is an example of his courage and determination, Rohlfing said.

The 28 young men and 22 young women "set a new standard in academics and participation," the principal added.

BILL SPARKES/Acorn Newspapers FATHER AND GRADUATE- Brennen Baughman, 17, looks to his future as he holds his 15month-old baby daughter Micayla on his lap after receiving his diploma from Apollo High. Baughman said he plans to attend Moorpark College to study business.

Brennen Baughman brought the crowd to tears as he carried his young daughter, Michaela, with him to receive his diploma.

"I didn't really need credits . . . I just came here to learn how to be a good dad," Baughman said.

Baughman transferred to Apollo in order to enroll in the school's minor-parent program. He plans to continue to work at Red Robin and to begin classes at Moorpark College this fall.

"I want to study business and one day own an electrical company," he said.

Like Baughman and Armstrong, the other Apollo graduates are ready to embrace their futures. According to Rohlfing, 30 members of the class plan to attend college, six will enter the workforce, five will become parents and five will enter the military.

Gary Stewart of Rotary Club of Simi Sunrise was on hand to present a scholarship from his organization.

"The students of Apollo touched not only my heart but touched the heart of the community," Stewart said.

During the June 21 commencement ceremonies, graduates Jessica Hernandez, Andrew Garcia, Sandy Guevara, Jorge Olague-Castillo and Villa were awarded scholarships from local organizations.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, students tossed their caps, hugged their friends and took comfort in their principal's parting words.

"Your laughter, your honesty, your jokes, your smiles, will forever be a part of Apollo," Rohlfing said.