Cheers and applause filled the auditorium at 617 Lexington St. on Thursday, May 28, as Waltham Valor High School celebrated the graduation of 26 seniors.

The ceremony was led by interim Principal Linda Flueckinger, with Spanish translation provided by school counselor Berta Padilla.

Flueckinger praised the graduates for overcoming personal and academic challenges to reach graduation day.

“Earning your high school diploma is no small accomplishment. Each of you has faced challenges along the way that may have made your path seem uncertain at times, and yet here you are,” Flueckinger said. “Today is a celebration of all your hard work.”

That message of perseverance continued throughout the evening as Waltham Public Schools Superintendent Marisa Mendonsa encouraged students to carry the lessons they learned at Valor into adulthood.

“I encourage you to keep those core values close to you as you grow as adults, as you start your careers, and as you become strong community members,” Mendonsa said. “I think you know that the folks here on stage believed in you the moment you walked through the doors.”

Mayor Jeannette A. McCarthy echoed those sentiments, applauding the graduates for their academic and personal growth.

“Congratulations to all the Valor High School graduates here tonight,” McCarthy said. “We’re very proud of your accomplishments and determination, and I look forward to seeing you again in the next leg of your educational journey.”

Valor Awards

A key staff member and several students were honored with awards recognizing leadership, creativity and dedication to the school community.

* Sara Hamerla, administrator of the multilingual department at Waltham Public Schools, received an appreciation award for her advocacy and support of multilingual learners.

*The Life-Long Learner Award was presented to Baye Toure for his curiosity and drive to continue learning beyond the classroom.

* Zaida Lupita Flores del Cid received the Valor Award for leading by example and inspiring classmates through her perseverance and leadership.

* Jaden Lee Aponte was recognized for his creativity and school spirit through his design of Valor Pins, which students earn upon completing academic modules.

* Stiven Obel Corzo Arana received recognition for his positive character and dedication to the school community.

Now in its second year, Valor High School offers a different path for students whose responsibilities outside the classroom require a more flexible approach to education. Many students balance jobs, family obligations or other challenges while completing their studies.

Through personalized schedules and individualized support, the school aims to help students earn a diploma and prepare for college, careers and life beyond graduation.