Paloma Valley commencement celebrates Class of 2017

Caps went into the air and streamers helped celebrate the graduation of the Paloma Valley High School Class of 2017. Menifee 24/7 photos: Kristen and Doug Spoon

Paloma Valley High School seniors took a giant step in their lives Thursday night by participating in the Class of 2017 Commencement ceremony in the school's football stadium.

More than 600 students received their diplomas after entering the stadium to a performance of "Pomp and Circumstance" by the school band. Paloma Valley principal Don Williamson, district superintendent Grant Bennett and members of the school board awarded the diplomas, to the cheers of the crowd.

In addition to Williamson, speakers included David Nelissen of the Perris Union High School District Board of Trustees; William Nguyen, Class Salutatorian; and Seth Harris, Class Valedictorian. When told to turn their tassels, signifying their graduation status, students threw their graduation caps into the air as streamers floated above them.

The presentation of the colors was made by members of the school's NJROTC battalion. Senior Class President Loreal Walls-Jaime led the audience in the flag salute and ASB President Lilyana C. Castro directed students to turn their tassels.

For bonus coverage of this event, watch our video news broadcast on Sunday.

Seth Harris, Class Valedictorian, addressed his classmates and the rest of the audience.

Students entered the stadium in a processional to the tune of "Pomp and Circumstance", played by the PVHS band.

Members of the Paloma Valley NJROTC and the school band participated in the ceremony.

Paloma Valley principal Don Williamson addressed the crowd and congratulated the seniors.

Class Salutatorian William Nguyen also addressed the audience.

Principal Don Williamson was the last to shake the hand of graduates as they received their diplomas.

Some graduates were more animated than others as they proceeded down the ramp after receiving their diploma.

Family members and friends leaned over the railing of the stands to greet the graduates during the processional.