Century, Conejo high diplomas presented
By Joann Groff joann@theacorn.com

Students from Conejo Valley and Century high schools walked side by side in blue and maroon gowns last week on a day the sun shone extra brightly.

Family and friends of the 142 CVHS graduates and the 23 Century graduates danced on the grassy field outside of CVHS and blew air horns when their children's names were called. Trucks honked when they drove by the campus and spotted the ceremony, colorful umbrellas popping up throughout the crowd.

Top scholars Carina Ann Trimble of Century and John Short IV of CVHS addressed their classes. Voted on by counselors, administration and teachers, the top scholar is the single senior who stands out among the rest.

After an extended absence from Westlake High School, John transferred to Conejo Valley. Although he planned on attending CVHS for just a semester before returning to Westlake, he decided after a few weeks he liked it there.

"Conejo Valley High School was the perfect fit for me," John said. "I was challenged daily. My education became personal. I owned it."

John said the personal attention was key to his success.

"I ate lunch with my teachers and counselors," John said. "If I was lazy, they set me to task. If I was falling behind, they asked how they could help. . . . I mattered as an individual."

Carina said she hadn't had any interest in school before arriving at Century. Once there, everything changed.

"I realized I was the one who was going to benefit from my education," Carina said. "I wanted to develop the life skills to become a lifelong learner."

Carina also took a moment to express her gratitude. "I am so grateful for my experience here," she said. "I want to thank the teachers and staff who offered their supportive voices at a time when I needed them the most. Thank you."

Principal Jim Martin acknowledged the presence of Richard Simpson, the deputy superintendent of the Conejo Valley Unified School District who will be hanging up his hat at the end of the month. Martin credited Simpson, as well as the board of education, with being instrumental in the push for a new campus, which is slated to open in 2009.

"They have been big supporters of the new site," Martin said. "We love this (campus), but it is really old and falling apart. . . . We're looking forward to the new one."

Superintendent Mario Contini commended the students for their hard work. "All the students here persisted. No matter what, they were going to get a good education here in the Conejo Valley."