Kids TALK BACK

-- Interviews and photos compiled by Christine Carrillo

The Daily Pilot went to St. Joachim School in Costa Mesa to ask

eighth-graders, ‘What does your eighth-grade graduation mean to you?’

“It’s the end of a chapter in my life and a time to look back on all

the great memories you’ve had with your friends. It’s a time to thank

God, your teachers and your friends.’

MARTIN PREMOLI, 14, Costa Mesa

“Graduation to me is a celebration of past events and accomplishments

and tells me I’m ready to go on to the next level of education.”

BRYANT OSPINO, 14, Santa Ana

“Graduation means that I’ve completed all the goals for elementary and

junior high school, which I believe St. Joachim and its teachers prepared

me for.”

FRANKIE OSPINO, 14, Santa Ana

“I believe graduation is completing part of my education and turning a

page to an exciting and promising future and the opportunities to succeed

beyond my wildest imagination.”

STEPHANIE VIVANCO, 14, Costa Mesa

“Graduation means leaving familiar faces and my school behind and

going on to another school to meet new people. It means leaving childhood

behind and starting adulthood.”

HANNAH MORA, 14, Foothill Ranch