Chapter started: May 16, 2009.
Chapter finished: May 23, 2009.
Trivia Answer: Miley Cyrus
Trivia Winner(s): Jeanette, tessababy1, Kro22, Linnea212, & choirsinger
Author's Note: Well, here's the second to last chapter. I hope you all enjoy it and I'm getting teary eyed, oh my lanta! Well, I hope you all enjoy this chapter and if you want to see what they wore, I have the links so just let me know. IMPORTANT AUTHOR'S NOTE ON BOTTOM!
=HSM3: Senior Year=
-Chapter 49: Wildcats, Class of 2009!-
(June 5, 2009.)
"Morning momma, dad, Inez," Troy greeted his parents and Gabriella's mom as he came down the stairs and into the kitchen, sitting at the island beside Inez after kissing each mom on the cheek and giving his dad a man hug.
"Morning sweetie. Breakfast?" Lucille asked as she put a fresh cup of hot chocolate complete with mini marshmallows down in front of her only child, her beautiful baby.
"Yes please," Troy told his mom before he turned to Inez and asked, "Where's Brie at?"
"I told you. It would only take ten point five seconds for him to ask it. You do the dishes tonight, darling," Lucille told her husband as she gave him a victorious smile.
"She went away with her daddy for a little. Greg told me this morning that he needed a little alone time with her today and that way she's not here when her surprises come," Inez replied.
"Oh, so what was that about?" Troy asked referring to his parents earlier before taking a sip of his hot chocolate.
"Oh they just made a bet on how long it would take you to ask where Gabriella was once you woke up. You're mom said ten point five seconds and your dad said three seconds or as soon as you saw us," Inez replied with a smile.
"Oh," Troy said a his mouth made a big 'O'.
"Yep. So I was wondering would you like to come with me and your parents to the airport here in an hour?" Inez asked Troy as Lucille put a plate of sausage, bacon, fried eggs, and fried potatoes with pancakes in front of him.
"Sure, but why are we going to that airport?" Troy asked Inez before he turned his head to his mom and asked, "And what's with the big breakfast, my favorite one at the that, not that I'm complaining cause I'm not."
"Because we're going to pick up Gabriella's surprise and your mom cooked it because it's the day that her son and only child graduates from high school," Inez replied to both questions before she leaned over to Troy and whispered in her ear, "So take it easy on your mom she's been sad all dad, your dad and I just got done comforting her after Greg and Gabriella left at eight this morning."
Troy smiled a thank you and then started to his breakfast.
------
Thirty minutes later, Troy was showered and dressed in tan cargo shorts and a white shirt with slip on adidas men's slides and a pair of aviators; ready to go with his parents and Inez to the Albuquerque International Sunport to pick up Gabriella's surprises.
(AIS)
Finally, thirty minutes later, they all were standing at the entrance/exit of Tunnel 14, where the planes passengers were going to come from.
"Wow, I wonder who was all on the flight," Troy said to his parents and Inez as people huddled around the entrance of the tunnel screaming while cameras flashed.
"They did," Inez said with a smile before she waved them over with a "Hey Lakers. Looking for me?"
"Mrs. M! Coach!" The Lakers all yelled before they went and engulfed her in the tightest and biggest hug ever.
"Hey, hey. No killing my mom now. And I want some of that loving so don't go taking it all away," Came a voice Inez hadn't heard since Gabriella's senior night of basketball.
"Brett, honey. You made it!" Inez said before she hugged her oldest child.
"Hiya mom, I missed ya," Brett told her as he picked her up and placed a kiss on her cheek.
"Um, Inez I think we have a problem," Lucille told Inez.
"Huh?" Inez asked before she turned around giggled at the look on her future son-in-law's face as all of the Lakers, his idols, stood in front of him; his dad wearing the same expression on his face.
"They're kinda in a trance," Lucille said before she burst out into giggles also. Locking eyes with Inez, they both let an evil thought pass through their eyes and head before they quickly pulled out their iPhones and started to take a couple of quick pictures.
Smirking Inez sent the picture to her husband's cell phone, seeing as he knew about the surprise because he arranged it; while Lucille, with the help of Brett, got Jack and Troy out of their trances.
(The Bolton Household-3PM)
"Wow, they've been gone an awful long time," Troy stated as he, the Lakers (with their families), the two Montezes, his parents, Chad with his parents, Zeke with his parents, Ryan with his parents, Martha's parents, Jason and his parents, Kelsi's parents and sister, Taylor's parents along with her older sister (and brother-in-law) all sat around the Bolton deck outback.
"What's the problem Bolton, going through Gabriella withdraw?" Chad asked half seriously and half jokingly.
"What about you Danforth?" Troy shot back at Chad before he added to the other three laughing teen boys, "What about you Cross? Baylor? Evans?"
"Now, boys behave," Lucille playfully scolded, but they also knew she was serious as all their moms PLUS their girlfriends' moms gave them death glares.
"They never are," Taylor said as she came walking in happily with her dad along with Kelsi and her dad, and Martha and her dad.
"Hey!" All the teen boys exclaimed shooting her a glare as the three girls just smiled and walked over to hug their moms. Each girl looked around surprised to see Gabriella's brother along with the Lakers and their families sitting spread out through the Bolton backyard.
"Shh, Gabriella doesn't know," Inez told the girls and the dads who all smiled and nodded, taking seats by their families.
"DADDY! DON'T!" Came two squeals that the wildcats, especially two of them, knew. Laughter was soon heard after along with more squealing and what sounded like a slight smack.
"Hey everyone," Greg said before he gave a bright smile to his wife, son, and the Lakers with family who all knew that smile meant that he was glad that his son and the Lakers with family could come out today.
"Hey honey. How was your day?" Inez asked before she changed it, "Wait, I got a better question…what are you doing with our youngest child?"
"Nothing," Greg said, acting innocently before he raised his hand and slapped it across as right shoulder, only it didn't hit his right shoulder it hit a white denim short clad butt.
"DADDY!" Gabriella squealed as did Sharpay when her dad did the same thing to her pink denim short clad butt. "PUT US DOWN!"
"Think we should, Greg?" Vance asked Greg with a playful smile and wink.
"Sure, why not and plus she's heavy," Greg replied playfully, but trying to act all serious, but really couldn't because he couldn't lie; a strong trait that his daughter and son inherited from him.
"So's she," Vance replied motioning to his daughter.
"Are you calling US FAT?!" The brunette and blonde asked shocked after they gasped.
"We're kidding," the dad's said together.
"Good! Now. Put. Us. Down. NOW!" The two girls said together.
"Alright, alright." The dads said before they put the girls down, Sharpay in Zeke's arms and Gabriella in her brother's arms.
"Hiya Princess!" Brett whispered in her ear seeing as she wasn't looking at him.
"Br…Br…BRETT!" Gabriella stuttered and then squealed before she threw her arms around his neck, kissed his cheek, and then hugged him tightly, never wanting to let go.
"I take it you're happy to see me?" Brett said as he kissed the top of her head with a smile as he hugged her tightly.
"I…I thought you wouldn't….be…able to make it," Gabriella said in between whimpers as she happily cried.
"And miss you graduating from high school?! No way in hell baby sis," Brett whispered his reply to her as he gently rubbed her back in soothing circles. He also caught a glance at Troy who was looking worried at his whimpering fiancee causing Brett to inwardly smile at how his beautiful and intelligent little sister picked a great guy, who came with the bonus of loving basketball which was always a GREAT thing in his and his dad's books.
(Lava Springs-4PM)
"Hello Mrs. Evans and ladies, and welcome back to Lava Springs County Club, your private spa session and changing room awaits you," Mr. Fulton said as he greeted the moms and daughters along with Kelsi's younger sister and Taylor's older sister.
"Thank you Mr. Fulton and nice tie," Sharpay replied for her mom before she led them all into the private changing area that was only for their use.
"Thank you Ms. Evans," Mr. Fulton said before he walked off to his office, whistling happily.
Once in the changing/locker room, the females changed out of their cloths they wore there and into robes and slippers before hanging up the zip up hoodies and shorts, setting their UGGS underneath them on the floor; they brought with them so they didn't ruin their hair or anything after it was done.
"So where to first mommy?" Sharpay asked her mom.
"To get a relaxing ten minute stone massage and then we need to go get our nails done, both finger and toenails," Derby replied and once in the area they were immediately waited on.
After each worker put a set of six hot rocks on each of their backs as they talked about anything and everything.
------
Thirty minutes later, they all put their robes back on and headed to the salon area that specialized in manicures/pedicures to waves.
"Mrs. Evans! What can I do for you today?" Julia, the head nail care lady, asked them with a smile.
"Manicure and Pedicures for Graduation please Julia," Derby told her.
After all the graduation females all got their French Manicures and Pedicures done with red glitter tips and a clearish looking pinkish color on the base of their nails, they along with Taylor's older sister, Kelsi's younger sister, and the moms all headed over to the hair and make up area to get their hair and make up down.
"So what kinda hairstyle can I give you ladies today?" Paul the head hair honcho asked the females.
"They would like their split ends cut," Derby said as she motioned to all of the teens, before she added as she placed a hand on Sharpay's shoulder and hand on Gabriella's shoulder, "These two just want their naturally and beautiful wavy hair to just have a little more volume to it.
And the rest of them want theirs slightly curled."
"So, Ms. Brie-Ella, ready to give your speech in front of BILLIONS of people?" Sharpay asked Gabriella as Paul worked on both of them while other stylists worked on everyone else.
"I think...I'm really nervous though," Gabriella replied to Sharpay and then turned her head to Taylor who's head was back as the stylist ran the warm water spray in her hair to rinse out the conditioner in her hair. "Nervous Tay-Tay?"
"A little," Came Taylor's replied while Paul put Superstar Volumizing Mousse from TIGI Bed Head Hair Care Products and massaged it into Sharpay's hair and then into Gabriella's.
"Well, you girls will do great. Don't worry," Inez told both Taylor and Gabriella before she went back to doing what the other moms were doing, taking pictures of the girls as they got their make up and hair done.
Finally after thirty minutes, all the girls had their hair and make up done. Martha's hair was in long big barrel curls, Taylor's hair was in small spiral curls, Kelsi's hair was in medium barrel curls, and Sharpay's and Gabriella's had their hair in their natural wavy style that had volume in it to make it have umpf. All of their make up was done in natural looking shades.
(The Boltons' House- Troy's Room)
Graduation was suppose to be a time for feeling proud of you accomplishments, for thinking about lots of lovely times with your friends and or your family, and saying them out loud. It's suppose to be a time for feeling love, sadness and joy, all at the same time. It's suppose to be time to cry and a time to laugh at all the stupid things you did with your friends when you look back at all the memories that you've made from being a kid to growing up. A time where a diploma qualifies the next stage in your life. Graduation was suppose to be the end, but also the beginning of your life….and these thoughts had just hit Gabriella who sat on the edge of Troy's bed, not even ready to leave to go to East High yet and graduate; and that's how Brett found his little sister as he walked into the room after getting no reply when he knocked.
"Princess, you okay… baby sis? Gabriella? Gabriella? GABRIELLA!" Brett said frantically as he sprinted towards his little sister.
After not getting a response after trying everything, he did the only thing he could think of and called 'Code G'.
Code G was set up by Inez, Greg, and the wildcats who all were worried when Gabriella hadn't broke down at the thought of graduation like the other ones did and because the next time she started to panic over it--like she did during her basketball senior night--they feared the worst would happen if they weren't there.
-----
Troy was busy talking with his parents, the Lakers and family, and Gabriella's parents when Brett came running into the living room, out of breath.
"Now, what'd you do to your sister?" Inez asked her son, hands on her hips.
All Brett did was playfully glare at his mom before saying quickly, "CODE G!"
The Montezes' eyes along with Lucille's and Jack's went wide at the words before Troy bolted towards his room which was off the kitchen while Lucille went to activate the rest of Code G.
Soon later, it seemed like a heard of wild animals came in as eight teens ran in threw the front door, threw the kitchen, and into Troy's room that was off the kitchen.
"GABRIELLA!" They all frantically yelled as they got on the bed next to a cationic Gabriella who Troy had moved so they were laying down, wrapped in each other's arms.
Slowly one by one the wildcats took turns, softly talking to Gabriella trying to bring her back.
"GM, come on. Come back to us we need you, sunshine," Jason said as he laid his head on her foot, to try to hide the tears that were threatening to fall.
"Come on Shining Star. You need to come back to us and talk to us, that's what we're here for. Come on Gabriella I love you and I need you back. And you can't leave me hanging when I wrote that song for you and Troy to sing," Kelsi softly told her, also laying her head down on Gabriella's other foot and wrapping her arms around her boyfriend who did the same.
"Come on Gabriella Marie, come back to us. You need to make sure I say no to Sharpay when I'm suppose to. You're suppose to come back so we can have a blast just dancing after grad," Ryan said, laying down so his head was on Gabriella's upper left leg, just a little above her knee; his arms going to wrap tightly around both her legs.
"Angel. Come on my Angel. We need you to party with us after graduation. Come on my sweet little angel," Martha said as she laid down on the other side of Gabriella's legs, and hugged them tightly; wrapping her arms next to Ryan's.
"Gabster, come on girl. You need to pull through this little sister and come back to us. If you don't, then who are me and Troy suppose to pick on our team so we can kick Jason's and Zeke's along with everyone else's asses?" Chad said as put his hand on Gabriella's knee and rubbed it in soothing brotherly way.
"Chad, it's Troy and I," Taylor softly informed her boyfriend, fixing his English causing everyone (besides Gabriella) to quietly laugh.
"See, don't you want to be here and help Taylor correct me on my oh so bad English?" Chad asked Gabriella softly causing eight to laugh gently and this time he moved so he could lay his head down on Gabriella's knee and wrap his arms around her waist.
"Yeah, I can't do it 24/7 so, I'm going to need your help, Marie….Gabriella Marie Montez, I love you little sis. We all love you so you have to come back to us, honey. We need you SO much," Taylor informed Gabriella with tears in her eyes as she laid down so her head was on Gabriella's knee and her arms were wrapped already around her crowded (with hands) waist.
"Rie, you better come back to us. You CAN'T leave us here with Chad because that's just mean and not even you are that mean. I'm not saying your mean cause as hard as you try and believe me you do, your not mean, AT ALL. So you NEED to come back, because I need you, you're my personal taste tester. Now, come on Rie. You know you want to come back," Zeke said as he laid beside Sharpay and wrapped his arms around Sharpay, and to where his fingers could lightly brush Gabriella's side, who was still nestled safe, warm, and protectively in both Troy's and Sharpay's arms.
"Brie-Ella, little sis, come on DON'T leave us, especially now. We need you, I need you. I need you to keep me in line so, I don't turn into the Ice Queen Witch Bitch again. Come on sis, come back. I WILL NOT and I repeat WILL NOT go shopping ever again without you. No way, no how," Sharpay said as she gently rubbed Gabriella's back and held her a little tightly as did Troy.
"Baby Brie, you need to come back to us, baby. We need you, I need you. Come on baby, come back to us. All of us are here and you can talk to us, we're your best friends, YOUR FAMILY. Come on baby, come home," Troy said kissing her forehead as he let tears slip from his eyes before he whispered into her ear, "I can't live without you. I love you and you defiantly can't leave me hanging because we have to sing at graduation and then I hope in the near future, we're going to get married. So come home baby, come back to me…please."
And slowly by slowly each wildcat started letting their tears out as they held her tightly wanting her to come back and be her bubbly self again.
"Guys…too….tight…can't…breathe…" Came a soft voice belonging to the girl who was getting loved to death.
"Gabriella!" They all exclaimed happily before they all looked at each other and then pounced on top of her causing theme all to go tumbling from the bed to the ground with a thud, with them laughing the whole way down. As this happened they didn't know or see that the parents of each teenager was standing in the doorway along with Kelsi's younger sister and Taylor's older sister, all taking pictures of the whole thing, and smiling at how they all had a great group of friends that they could rely and depend on for anything and everything; and knowing no matter what they weren't going to let these friendships or loves go anytime soon.
-----
After they all explained to Gabriella what happened and she told and talked with them about what had caused it, they all understood and just said that they would always be here for her like she was for them; before they all left the Bolton house to finish getting ready for Graduation…well, except for Sharpay who wanted to stay and refused to leave.
"I can not believe that we just kicked my fiancé out of his own room," Gabriella told Sharpay as they laid their outfits out on the bed.
Sharpay just giggled before she unzipped her hoodie revealing her strapless white silk push up bra as did Gabriella revealing her red strapless lace push up bra.
After unzipping their hoodies and throwing them into their duffeles, they took off their shorts to reveal their matching thongs, so they stood at the edge of the bed in their lingerie and chestnut UGG boots.
"Do you want me to help you put on your dress and then you can help me?" Gabriella asked Sharpay.
"Yes please," Sharpay said before they both kicked off their UGGs and Sharpay unzipped her black dress bag that had the dress designer's name, Sherri Hill, written across it.
Smiling Sharpay pulled out a beautiful and adorable white short dress that had a strapless sweetheart neckline and gold sequin embellishments on the bodice with a shirred empire waist that was accented with a large white bow. The A-line short skirt with a tulle petticoat and was dotted with gold sequins.
Sharpay smiled and turned her iPhone onto the music portion of her phone while she held her dress up with one hand across her bust as Gabriella zipped it up in behind.
After Sharpay found the song Boom Boom Pow, she played it while she and Gabriella finished getting ready.
Gabriella smiled and grabbed her black dress bag that had the designer's name, Jovani, and unzipped the bag. Once the bag was unzipped, she pulled out a beautiful and stunning dress that would give off a soft and elegant look. The dress was a short strapless white dress with a high waist, red ombre sequins, and a red silk thin ribbon belt under her bust.
After putting their dresses on, they pulled out two shoe boxes, one box each. Out of Sharpay's box she pulled out a pair of gold strappy 3 inch high heels with cascading rhinestones; and out of Gabriella's box she pulled a pair of silver 3 inch high heels that featured a delicate band across the toes and a glamorous ankle wrap, all accented with mirror sequins that shimmer and shine.
"Here's your Tiffany & Co. jewelry we bought, Shar-Bear," Gabriella said as she handed Sharpay two light blue boxes with little white ribbons on the top, Tiffany & Co.'s signature trademark.
"Thank ya," Sharpay said as she opened up the small box to reveal a pair of Elsa Peretti Diamonds by the Yard dangling earrings in 18K gold with diamonds; and then opening up the large box to reveal a necklace that matched the earrings.
Gabriella opened up her two boxes while Sharpay did to reveal a beautiful set of Tiffany Hearts drop earrings that had brilliant round diamonds in platinum silver which was in a small box, and in the medium sized box to reveal a Tiffany Metro bangle with round brilliant diamonds in 18K platinum silver. And lastly to top Gabriella's outfit off she put her T necklace on around her necklace and her engagement ring on her left ring finger.
"Aw, now don't all of you look so cute standing there," the moms gushed as they took pictures of the ten teens who stood under a Willow Tree in the Boltons' backyard.
And the moms were right, the boys all looked handsome in their black dress shoes, black dress pants, white shirts with white (all except Troy who had a red one) ties; and the girls all stood in their outfits.
Taylor was in her beautiful white dress that was knee length and had spaghetti straps with a smooth bodice and a thin satin bow that ties at the waist and an exposed crinoline skirt with satin trim, a pair of 3 ½ inch white allover pleated satin heels with satin bow and organza ruffles sat on her feet, and white beaded jewelry to help accent her outfit.
Martha's outfit consisted of her strapless silk taffeta tea length dress that had a bubble hem combined with flirty front bow, a pair of gold hoops sat in her ears, and a pair of beautiful white 2 ¾ inch high heels with a double heart rhinestone detail on the strap that went across your toes and a buckled ankle strap along with a beautiful pleating on the toe strap.
Kelsi's outfit consisted of a short white dainty daisy print organza dress with a figure flattering silhouette featuring an empire waist and strapless sweetheart neckline, a three row white pearl collar chocker necklace sat around her neck, white pearl drop earrings in her ears, two strands of pearl bracelets sat on her left wrist (a clear one and a solid one), and a pair of satin 1 ½ inch high heels with a dazzling rhinestone anklet with ribbon tie on the back, sat on her feet.
After all the pictures were taken, alone and in couples and in groups and with parents and any other kind of photos, they all got into the white HUMMER stretch limo that Derby and Vance had pick them up in and together they all rode in the limo towards East High, the Lakers and family meeting them there.
(East High-Gym 6:30 PM)
In the gym, all the seniors were getting dressed in their own personal red or white caps and gowns.
"Alright, I have an announcement so listen up. The top fifteen honor students of the class along with the class officers will come up here and get their stoles of honor when I call your name," Ms. Darbus said before she turned she started calling each person, "Alright first class officers. Class President, Taylor McKessie."
Taylor smiled and walked up dressed in her red cap and gown and went to accept her stole of honor which was white with 'Taylor Annabelle McKessie' written on it above '2009 Class President', both in red silk thread with 'Honor Student' written underneath them both in gold satin thread and put the sash looking stole around her neck.
"Class Vice President, Troy Bolton," Ms. Darbus read off before giving Troy a white satin stole and put it around his neck. His stole read 'Troy Alexander Bolton' and '2009 Class Vice President' in red satin thread with 'Honor Student' written in gold satin thread underneath them.
"Gabriella Montez, Class Secretary," Ms. Darbus said before she put Gabriella's white satin stole evenly around her neck. Her stole read 'Gabriella Marie Montez' and '2009 Class Secretary' in red satin thread with 'Honor Student' written in gold thread underneath them.
"And Martha Lynn Cox, Class Treasure," Ms. Darbus said before she put the white satin stole that had her full name on it along with her position of class officer and along with the words 'Honor Student' in gold satin thread.
Ten minutes later, each and every senior found out that all of the ten wildcats had made it to being one of the top twenty honor students of the class…along with (surprisingly) Chad.
"Alright, now remember your tassels stay to the right until your told to change it to the left. Alright, now in line and remember everything you learned at rehearsal about walking toe-heel-toe-heel," Ms. Darbus told them.
"Ms. Darbus, it's time," a helper told her before he walked way.
"Alright, it's time. Now, remember count to fourteen Mississippi before following Rayna out to the football field. And remember to smile," Ms. Darbus said before they all headed to outside towards the football field.
-----
All of the parents who sat up in the stands stood up and clapped as the class flower girl, Rayna, a junior in the junior class; walked entered the football standing walking toe-heel-toe-heel with one white and red long stemmed roses in her hand while people took pictures. Rayna was dressed in a gold metallic short dress by Lenovia, a pair of gold 2 ¾ inch slide on high heels, single diamond jewelry, her hair was straightened all except for the ends which were curled and then pulled half back, and her make up was done in gold sparkles.
After Rayna reached her seat on the stage beside a basket of red and white long stemmed roses so she could give on to each and every senior when they got their diplomas, the seniors started entering the football field walking toe-heel-toe-heel as the band softly played the cords to their class song, the same chords from the musical.
Once every senior was seated comfortably (and in the correct seat) so, that if you we're in an airplane in the sky (or if you were sitting high enough in the football stadium), over the seniors you would see on the left side, seniors in white gowns and caps surrounding a red letter 'E' made out of seniors in red caps and gowns; and then on the right side you would see seniors in red caps and gowns surrounding a white 'H' made out of seniors dressed in white caps and gowns.
Mr. Matsui dressed in his special faculty and board robes as were the rest of the board and faculty members, he walked up to the podium to give his speech. "Good evening, members of the board, faculty, families, and friends and thank you for coming to the class of 2009's graduation ceremony. Will you please stand and join Pastor John Baney in the invocation graduation prayer. Thank you."
"Will you please bow your heads and join me and prayer," Pastor John Baney, or PJ as the students liked to call him, said before he continued, "Father, I have knowledge, so will You show me now. How to use it wisely and find a way somehow to make the world I live in a little better place. And make life with its problems a little bit easier to face. Grant me faith and courage and put purpose in my days. And show me how to serve Thee in effective ways. So my education, my knowledge and my skill; may find their true fulfillment as I learn to do Thy will. And may I ever be aware in everything I do. That knowledge comes from learning, and wisdom comes from You. Amen."
"Thank you. Now, will you all please turn you attention and give a big round of applause for the class valedictorian, Ms. Gabriella Montez," Mr. Matsui said before he sat back down.
Gabriella stood up shakily and walked up on stage. She cast her smile towards the audience, then to the people on stage, and then lastly the senior class before she locked her eyes with Troy, who was wishing her good luck and giving her silent courage.
"Thank you Mr. Matsui; honored board, faculty, family, friends and the class of 2009.
Change your stars. This was said by a character in a favorite movie of mine called 'A Knight's Tale'. The main character, Will Thatcher, is born a peasant, is sold to a knight, and grows up to be a knight himself. Will changes who he is because of three small words that his father told him when he was a boy. Will soon became a very strong person. He took something he believed in and acted on it. He made something of himself. Despite that Will is a fictional character, who is brought to life onscreen by the amazing Heath Ledger who may he rest in peace; he is still someone who I strive to be like. A huge part of what has helped me to be better, try harder, and achieve this in life, is East High School. During my two wonderful years and sometimes rocky times at East, I have learned more than I ever could have hoped for. It has helped me to become a stronger, more independent person. All of the things that I learned at East High, I will take with me to college at UCLA. Using all of my resources around me, I have become a person I never thought or dreamed I could be.
So join me as I tell you a little story.
Two years ago, a young girl walked into East High School here in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Right away she felt at home. The past two years have been the best years of her life. Over the course of those years, she grew into the young woman who stands before you today. She's older, wiser, and stronger in more ways than one.
I am going to miss everyone that has stood by me and supported me these past years. They have all contributed to each and every step I have taken from that young girl to this young woman. Every life at East that has touched mine has made a difference. No one here will ever understand how much I love them and their friendships. Just as I am sad to leave, I am happy to find a new place where I can learn and grow more into a woman," Gabriella said before she turned to look at her teachers as she said the next part, "However, I would not have made it this far without the help of a few people. All my teachers, especially Ms. Darbus, have all helped me grow in so many different ways, I could not have picked better teachers. Ms. Darbus, you are more than a teacher to me, you're my role-model. It says so on all of my college applications. Pastor Baney, you have helped me to discover who I am spiritually, mentally, and emotionally."
PJ smiled at her and she smiled back before she turned to her friends and took the time to look each and everyone one of them dead in the eyes as she said their names, "All of my friends, the TRUE wildcats--Sharpay Anne Evans, Ryan Joshua Evans, Chad Nicholas Danforth, Taylor Annabelle McKessie, Kelsi Monique Nielsen, Jason Allen Cross, Martha Lynn Cox, Zeke Lake Baylor and my boyfriend now fiancé, Troy Alexander Bolton, you have all supported me and given me that extra umpf when I needed it.
Kelsi, Kels, you have inspired me to be the best I can be. You're my musical sister.
Jason, Jas Allen, you have taught me how to be a deeper sleeper than I already am," and as Gabriella said that about her and Jason the whole football stadium burst into laughter before quieting down so she could continue, "Ryan, Ry-Ry, and Martha, Dancing Babe, you guys taught me how to let loose and dance. You guys are my dance partners.
Taylor, Tay-Tay, you have taught me how to work harder than I already do, and to be there for my friends even more than I need to be. You're my decathlon sister.
Chad...Chadster!"
"Gabster!" Chad yelled out causing everyone to laugh at the two.
"Chad, Chadster, you taught me a bunch of things, but most importantly you have taught me how to have a great time, I love you big brother, keep up the fro, it's working for you. You're my personal joke machine, all I have to do is say something or somebody else does and 99.9 percent of the time you come back with jokes, especially when trying to make us laugh or get happy again.
Zeke, Laker, you have helped me make the best foods ever! You're my baking partner.
Sharpay, Shar-Bear, when I first came here we were down right enemies from the very beginning, but look at us now, best friends, even better SISTERS. I'm so proud to say that we have the closest relationship in the whole gang, you are my drama stage sister and I love you so much!
And lastly, but certainly not least in my eyes, Troy Alexander Bolton or Wildcat as I like to call him and I also like to call him the love of my life, my fiancé; I would say 'I love him more than anything in the world, but he IS my world," Gabriella said as she looked towards each person before she looked Troy directly in the eyes and let a bright smile appear on her face.
"I love you too," Troy mouthed to her as he smiled at her.
"Troy, you were the main reason why I fell in love with performing onstage and singing whenever I could get the chance. You're always there for me like I am for you, you say I make you a better person, when in reality you make ME a better person. You make me strive harder to reach my dreams and to make everyone proud no matter what. I hope we're always together forever, no matter what. Isn't forever the whole point? I love you, Troy Alexander Bolton, my Wildcat, my superstar," Gabriella said finishing talking about Troy with happy tears in her eyes before she smiled and looked for her family in the audience. Smiling she eyed all the Lakers and family, her mom, her dad, and her big brother before she spoke, "Lakers and family, you have given me another sport to love more, basketball, and for that I'm truly grateful. And I also want to thank you for always being there for me, letting me practice and be with you guys on the court, and for winning the NBA 2008 Championship. I love you guys, especially you Kobs, Big S, and MJ.
Brett Andrew Montez, Bretty, what to say, what to say….those three words kept running through my head and what it all it really comes down to is that I love you, big brother. You're my hero, you're my confidence and you're my best friend. Brett, you and me have been through SO much, it would take forever just to say and explain how much. But I'm going to let you in on a little fact, when you left for Harvard…I felt like my world come crashing down and all I kept thinking and knew then was that…that was it, you were done with me, you had you're fun and now you'll never want anything to do with me. So I thought you wouldn't come back for my birthday and I was in shell shock when you came back for my birthday and then again and again or whenever I needed you, but most importantly if I think back to all the highlights of my high school life, you've been in almost every single one and if you couldn't you make it up somehow and in someway that always made me smile and bubbly. I'm eternally grateful and still surprised that you've taken time out of earning that big time law degree from Harvard just to come back to see me and to be there for me whenever I needed you and no matter how I needed you. Brett, Bretty, big brother…I love you and thank you for always being there for me, for I am eternally grateful.
Mommy and daddy, you've helped me with my homework, even if I yelled at you or if it got too hard for all of us. You've supported me in every way you could possibly imagine, even if it meant taking me to L.A. every summer just to visit my godfathers and to watch the Lakers kick butt! You've done so much for me that it would take me forever to list, and I don't know how to pay you back, unfortunately. All I know is that I couldn't have asked for better parents, I love you guys. You're my heroes.
By coming to East High, I have changed my stars and become a person who wants to make a mark in everything that I do. One person can make a difference, so remember that you too can change your stars. Congrats, Class of 2009, we made it! We changed our high school stars! And good luck! Thank you," Gabriella said as she finished her speech before walking off stage with tears in her eyes as she sat back down, each wildcat hugged her and complemented her on her speech.
"Thank you Ms. Montez and now if you all turn your heads to the screen and watch a wonderful slide show that Seniors made to show you what Senior year at East High and with their friends and family consisted of," Mr. Matsui said, the audience in the stands turned their heads towards the projection screen that was rolled in front of them after the end of Gabriella's speech, and the graduating class and the people on stage looked at a different projection screen that was rolled out onto the stage after Gabriella's speech.
Everyone cheered as the red and white with gold lettering title slide appeared on the screen and read as I'm Not Gonna Cry played followed by, Say Goodbye, Lose Yourself, and then their class song:
Memories of the Class of 2009
"The 'Breaking Free' Class!"
After all the seniors had their little part of the slideshow done, and each couple (only if the seniors were dating another senior) had their own little section, and after Sharpay's and Zeke's, Chad's and Taylor's, Ryan's and Martha's, and Jason's and Kelsi's couple section pasted, everyone cheered as a black slide with red cursive writing with a flashing neon heart border, came up that read:
~THE GREATEST COUPLE EVER~
TROY BOLTON
&
GABRIELLA MONTEZ
Everyone cheered and then quickly quieted down as pictures of them from Junior year showed before a video of their audition for Twinkle Towne where they performed "Breaking Free'' popped up on screen, before other random pictures of them popped up, before a video of the Boys' Basketball Senior Night popped up and everyone watched it as Troy and Gabriella with their friends remembered it like it was yesterday:
Jack smiled and began to talk, "And now, please help us honor our last by certainly not least senior who is EAST HIGH SCHOOL'S BOYS' BASKETBALL MOST TREASURED SENIOR. This guy is THE HEART, THE SPIRIT, THE SOUL, and THE GLUE that holds our team together and pulls our team through. This is what the team had to say about him: This young man and athlete is an amazing all around American and world basketball player because we've seen it with our own eyes and so have you. He's the most amazing young man playing this sport and this all has to do with who his father is, our Coach, Coach Bolton, because they both share the love and dedication for the game, they BOTH love. It's like watching a god do his work in ancient Greece!
He is always kind, considerate, helpful, funny and a good spirited player which is why he has been the captain of this team since his freshman year.
He's an amazing offensive player and he gives amazing defense. This young guy, can take anything you throw at him, literally! When Coach asks for a 100 percent he gives his dad a million and more percent because he knows that even though his dad's coach at practice, Coach is still his dad. He is defiantly the best All American Men's High School Basketball player the world has ever and WILL EVER see. He is defiantly the heart, the spirit, the glue that holds the team together, and the down right amazingness of this team.
And we the team and the Coach thank this Senior for everything he has done and we wish him the best of luck.
We and East High will never ever forget him and neither will many others to come, because he will go down as a legend tonight at East High because he's one of the best players E.H has ever seen, whether we win or lose tonight, we will party because he's the best guys' player East High School has EVER SEEN and WILL EVER SEE!" Coach Bolton said before he handed the microphone over to team.
Together they all screamed into the microphone like the girls did on their senior night, "PLEASE WELCOME OUR CAPTAIN, THIS YEAR'S MVP, NUMBER 14, BOYFRIEND OF GABRIELLA MONTEZ, TROY BOLTON!"
Everyone that had been at the girls' senior night, all watched on as Troy received the same things that Gabriella did. And they all watched as Gabriella handed Troy a large teddy bear that had 'I love you my Wildcat' on its tummy that was in the shape of a heart along with a bunch of balloons and gift bags.
After receiving everything, Troy smiled and took the microphone from Chad who smiled encouragingly at him.
"Hey, how are you all doing tonight?!" Troy asked everyone in the stands as he spoke into the microphone.
Everyone cheered causing Troy to laugh before he started to speak again, "So tonight is a very special night here at East High and not just because I'm about to do something that will hopefully change mine and this lovely ladies life for the better."
"What are you doing, Troy?" Gabriella asked him with confusion in her eyes.
"This," Troy said into the microphone as he locked his eyes with hers before he got down on one knee causing everyone to gasp minus the guys basketball team, the wildcat dads, Gabriella's godfathers and brother.
"Wh…what are you doing?" Gabriella stuttered, shocked and confused, really hoping she wasn't dreaming.
"Gabriella, Baby Brie, Baby, Brie, something brought us both to karaoke at the lodge in Colorado. It wasn't just by coincidence that we met at East High afterwards or that we got the parts in Twinkle Towne and broke free.
Someone somewhere knew that we are meant to be. Even though our friends saw that, they tried to break us up, and they did for a little bit until they apologized and told us the truth, making us stand even stronger. And then with everything that happened at Lava Springs this summer, I lost you because I lost myself because I was blinded by what Sharpay was offering. And that night that you came back to Lava Springs to sing in the talent show to surprise sing with me, I was not ready for it to be your voice I heard instead of Sharpay's, but I was SO happy that it was your voice and you that I got to share the summer moment with. And I was ecstatic when you forgave me after we talked everything through and after we talked to Sharpay and she then instantly became like a littler sister to me and the others, but a really close adoptive big sister to YOU, which was surprising for all of us.
And then later, our friends especially Chad and Sharpay, tried to get us to tell each other to say I love you and because of that, they brought us even closer together and because of them we started something new.
I don't know if there is really such a thing as soul-mates or star crossed lovers, but I think there is something or someone big up there that helps you find out who you are meant to be with. But I DO I think there is some higher power that helps you find like, your match, the person who just fits with you because brought me to you. And for me, that's you Gabriella Marie Montez. So on this day in front of a billion people, our fans, our number one supporters, our families and our friends I ask you. Will you make me the happiest man in the world and become Mrs. Gabriella Marie BOLTON. Will you marry me and spend the rest of our lives together?"
Gabrielle smiled brightly through the waterfall of tears and got on her knees in front of him despite her dress and passionately kissed him.
"Is that a yes?" Troy asked her in a whisper with hope in his voice.
"It's a hell yes!" Gabriella whispered back to him before Troy smiled brightly back and then opened up a box that you could clearly see that was from Tiffany & Co. and watched as he pulled out the ring of any girls DREAMS. The ring was a ring that any girl anywhere around the world would know, it was Tiffany & Co.'s legendary The Tiffany Setting ring that has been the world's favorite engagement ring since its creation over a century ago. The ring of rings, as people liked to call it (especially girls), was the most brilliant ring ever and it was the most beautiful, everyone knew it.
Smiling after slipping the ring on her left ring finger, he leaned his head down and passionately kissed her as he raised to his feet, he kept her tightly in his arms as he picked her up and spun her around slowly as the cheering E.H. fans, some W.H. fans, and everyone else (minus the haters from West High) cheered for the couple and as Lucille and Inez held each other crying happily as did the girls as Zeke, Jason, Ryan, and Chad just rolled their eyes, but with bright happy smiles for the couple.
(End of Video Clip & Flashback)
Everyone then again, cheered as another clip of them started playing, a clip from the musical causing Troy and Gabriella to remember yet another happy moment, one of the best ones of their lives:
"And now a senior who I believe has a decision to make, Mr. Troy Bolton. Troy," Ms. Darbus said with a smile.
Troy took a deep breath and step forward out of the line before looking at his parents and then everyone else as he spoke, but his eyes staying locked with his dad's, "I've chosen basketball, the University of California-Los Angeles offers me a full ride to it. But that's not the main reason I'm going, the main reason is because I chose the person who inspires my heart and who is the love of my life and very existence. Who and where I can see…." he turned to look at Gabriella who had glossy eyes on the verge of crying as he held out his hand with a loving smile and said, "you everyday, whenever I or you want." After taking Gabriella's hand he gently pulled her tightly into his side as he placed a soft loving kiss on her temple before saying, proudly with a bright smile, "Ms. Gabriella Marie Montez, the University of California-Los Angeles, volleyball, basketball, and law."
Everyone cheered, stood up, some wolf whistled, some awed, some got watery eyed, and some just smiled or laughed a little as Troy dipped a shock Gabriella and kissed her passionately on the lips before bringing her slowly back up, still in the lip lock, and picking her up off the ground and slowly twirling them as they kissed slowly and passionately.
(End of Video Clip & Flashback)
Everyone cheered as another slide came up with a graduation cap and diploma in the background as big black italic sized writing read:
There is a good reason they call these ceremonies "commencement exercises." Graduation is not the end; it's the beginning. ~Orrin Hatch
After the quote slide, the slides that read where each senior was going to college or if not going to college what were they planning to do popped up and after the slides that the teachers each had something to say about a senior or the class popped up followed by more pictures until the very last slide popped up and it read in big black writing with a bunch of pictures faded in the background:
To the East High Class of 2009, congratulations! YOU MADE IT, YOU GRADUATED!
--------
"Now, wasn't that something, it was truly wonderful. Now will you please turn and give a big round of applause for the salutatorian, Ms. Taylor McKessie," Mr. Matsui said as the screens were quickly and quietly rolled away. Thank you, Gabriella, Mr. Matsui, faculty, students, board members, family and friends!
Good evening all, family, friends, faculty and welcome to East High School and more importantly to the graduation of the Class of 2009!
Congratulations are certainly in order: to our parents for their endless support of our efforts; to our teachers for their tireless commitment to our success and for putting up with Chad," Taylor started.
"Thank you!" Chad yelled at her and to the teachers causing the whole football stadium to erupt in laughter at him not getting it. And they laughed even harder when he did get it and shout out to his girlfriend, "HEY! I RESENT THAT!"
Taylor just rolled her eyes with a giggle before she continued where she left off, "and, of course, to ourselves, for the many sleepless nights spent at the mercy of the seemingly unbolting tides of one grueling assignment after the next. It kinda makes me being up here and us graduating to make up for those nights of endless homework and sleep deprivation ALMOST seem worth it.
Nevertheless, these years of our lives have become indelible memories, memories we will undoubtedly cherish, memories always present forever reassuring, and memories that need to be forgotten, forgotten.
We have come to know each other as you have come to know us, some more than others, and during this limited and in limited yet huge space, we, all of us, have forged unshakeable bonds with one another that even in our darkest nights have proved the most comforting solace. We are the intertwining threads that form the fabric of our city. We have thus come to define ourselves by the singularity of heart and mind we find with those who have touched us so profoundly with their presence and that will NEVER be forgotten."
And as Taylor said the last couple of lines, all of the senior class smiled and some of the adults along with the teachers, all knowing that she was talking about how Gabriella, the new girl, came in and changed the whole school (along with the basketball captain, the Golden Boy) upside down and for the better.
"Now, on that note, I'd just like to say thank you to all the people that I would have perished without. The wildcats, Troy Bolton, Gabriella Montez, Chad Danforth, Zeke Baylor, Sharpay Evans, Ryan Evans, Martha Cox, Kelsi Nielsen, and Jason Cross: you guys are all awesome, you're my heart and my soul, I love you guys forever and ever. I hope we stay friends…no, sorry FAMILY forever, no matter WHERE we are or WHERE life might take us. Chad Nicolas Danforth: a lunkhead basketball player was all I thought of up until junior year…okay, I also thought of you as zoo animal too…you along all of your friends, sorry guys just being honest. But out of all the things in the world, I would have NEVER EVER thought of you as my boyfriend. Chad, you may be wacky, stupid and clueless all at the same time ALL of the time, but I DO love you, NEVER EVER doubt that and I'm looking forward to spending the summer, my college years, and however long more by your side," Taylor said as she looked at her boyfriend who was shocked at what she said, but also loved it and knew right there and then he wasn't going to let her go.
"I love you too nerd," Chad mouthed back to her causing her to playfully glare and then smile.
With a turn of her head and her eyes moved to lock with a pair of brilliant bright blue set of eyes, she continued, locking eyes with each person she thanked "Troy Alexander Bolton: I always thought of you as a lunkhead basketball guy too, one that was egotistic, stuck up, and just a…well, a jerk and for that I am truly sorry. But I think what I'm most sorry for is that time Chad, our friends, and I tried to rip you and Gabriella apart in junior year, and for that I'm truly sorry. Troy, you're my best friend's, my LITTLE SISTER'S fiancé who talks sense into Chad when Gabriella or I or anyone else can't, but most importantly Troy I would like to thank you for being there for me, just like a big brother. You're the big brother I never had, and I'm glad to say I have someone like you as a big brother. Ryan Joshua Evans: You, Mr. Evans, have never been one that I would have seen to have a soft and manly side. And I would have never have seen you as my friend…or another big brother. Ryan, I owe my thanks to you for helping teach Chad how to dance so he wouldn't step on my toes at all the dances we went to. Martha Lynn Cox: I want to thank you for the same thing as I thanked Ryan, but also for helping me to learn how to let loose. And I'm glad we're friends, big sister/little sister to each other. Kelsi Monique Nielsen: I've noticed you a lot before the first time we we're introduced, but I never came up to you personally and got to know you because I thought you were just another one of those drama people who all you could talk, think or speak was drama or I thought because you were possibly an Evans' clone and for that I'm truly sorry and happy to call you one of my best friends, a little sister. Zeke Lake Baylor: I also thought of you as a lunkhead basketball guy therefore I never took the time to know you, and for that I'm truly sorry. Zeke, thanks for all the amazing foods you cooked for us and for me when I was down. Sharpay Anne Evans: I know we haven't been friends or even remotely close, heck we weren't even friends when we were in pre-K, but I like to think of us as best friends or big/little sisters. But lastly, a big thank you goes out to Gabriella Marie Montez. You Gabriella Marie, have changed East High School and for the better, NOT FOR THE WORST. You were the one that brought out a new and better side out to Troy and along with that you two made everyone break free from the status quo when you two, from totally different cliques, him from the jocks, you from the brianiacs; chose to audition and beat the Evans' twins for a role in one of our high school musicales when nobody has beaten them out since kindergarten. You have made all of these amazing nine friends that I talked about walk into my life. YOU, my little sister, I love more than anything and I always will no matter what. But the main reason I love you is because you're always there for me no matter what time or whatever it is, but that's not the only main reason, the very main reason is that you brought the most funniest, clueless-ness, and yet amazing guy and basketball player into my life, he might not be as great as your guy, but I still love him and hope we last forever."
Gabriella started to get tears in her eyes again and let a few of them slip before Sharpay pulled her into her arms, before Troy could, and started to calm her down while Taylor moved back over to Chad to finish up, "I love you Chad, even though you drive me up and down a wall all the time and when you make me so mad."
"Thank you…hey!" Chad replied causing the whole stadium to erupt in fits of laughter again.
Taylor just rolled her eyes and giggled before finishing up her speech, "So after these words of thank I would like to say.
This is the time of our life, quite literally, for now we are fully equipped to experience life for what it truly is: the ebbs and flows on this winding rapid that is the stream of time. We know that, like many before us, and those soon to come after, that our experiences are universal, yet individual in the truest sense.
And as we come to realized that these tears gently or rapidly rolling down our cheeks mean NOT fear or pain, but the joy in finally understanding that this time of our lives constitute not an end, but a new beginning, one free of the confines we once formerly faced in our naïve immaturity, we will then be able to appreciate the true significance of our graduation.
We KNOW the past, we LOVE the present, and we ARE the future.
Congratulations, again, to all. With the deepest love and sincerest gratitude, I say, thank you, God bless, and may we realize AND reach our grandest and greatest dreams."
"Thank you Ms. McKessie. Now, it's time for our guest speaker to give his speech. Ladies and Gentlemen, Jack Bolton. He's the current basketball boys coach, physical education teacher, health teacher and athletic director, but MOST IMPORTANTLY he's the father of one of the seniors." Mr. Matsui said before he sat down and let Jack give his speech.
Jack smiled at his wife and his son before giving his speech, "Dear graduates--For the past 13 years, you've come to school five days a week, eight hours a day, forty weeks a year. And some of you were crazy enough to come during the summer. From the moment you entered kindergarten until this day, you've been told how to behave, what to think, how to express yourself. You've been inundated with textbooks, syllabi, assignments, research projects, some by teachers you respect, some by those you didn't like, right Mr. Danforth?"
"Right….wait! No, I mean that's SO not true and what is this pick on Chad day?!" Chad replied causing the whole stadium to burst into laughter, again, again.
Jack just laughed before continuing, "You learned to adjust to this assault by becoming grinds and sweet talkers and sometimes slipping under the radar.
And all the years, the moment you walked in the door at home, the daily interrogation by your parents began, believe me I know us parents do it because my wife, Lucille, and I, always do it with our son, Troy.
'What did you learn today' 'Who're you hanging out with' 'Do you have homework?'
He learned to respond to this assault by removing the cell phone from his ear and mumbling, 'It's all good,' as he sprinted to his room and slammed the door.
With all these adults looming over you--observing, encouraging, lecturing, questioning-- it is amazing that your mind ever was quiet enough to learn anything at all, right Mr. Danforth, son?"
"Nice try dad," Troy replied knowing what his dad was trying to do.
And, of course, Chad didn't so he replied with, "Right Coach!…Wait, I mean no coach!"
The whole stadium again laughed for what was probably the hundredth time due to Chad before Jack continued, "My guess, though, is the most valuable lessons you learned in school were not always those delivered by teachers or parents, and not those learned from books, but lessons you learned before school and after standing in the cafeteria lines, hanging out on the quad, sitting in the gym to watch the basketball and volleyball teams win championships, riding on the bus to school and games or driving there with friends or shopping and having fun with friends.
You learned whom to befriend. Whom to avoid. Who was loyal. Who would repeat your secret the moment you walked way. You learned whom to go to when you needed someone to talk to, someone to lean on, someone to borrow lunch money from.
You learned the democracy of the schoolyard. You learned that not all African-Americans play dominos. Not all Persians gel their hair into rigor mortis positions. Not all Latinos play handball at lunch. Not all Asians study 12 hours a day. Not all Brentwood kids drive Priuses to school. Not all Topangans hike to campus sharing a joint along the way. And not everyone who's gay is dying to have sex with you.
Between classes you probably learned that a lot of the lessons from home and school, and a lot of those observed on TV, didn't make sense or apply to you, and from now on you'd probably be better off figuring out things for yourself.
I'll tell you what else you learned between classes.
You learned how to enroll in courses YOU wanted.
You learned how to avoid the teachers who weirded you out.
You learned how to deal honestly or not so honestly with the attendance and counseling offices, with community service, library fines, and the principal's office.
Whatever you learned or didn't learn in the classroom, the fact that you're graduating is proof that in those 13 years you learned at least one valuable life skill-- you learned from this mandatory schooling how to survive a bureaucracy that sometimes seemed indifferent, that sometimes made you feel you were only a number, or invisible, or that you didn't count.
And wherever life leads you, come tomorrow morning I promise YOU WILL BE confronted time and time again by more bureaucracies like this one that you're about to leave. Whether it's college or a corporation, the military, the NBA or the NFL or the MLB, the DMV or the IRS, bureaucracies are awaiting YOU.
And because you've successfully maneuvered your way through this institutional maze, you have, whether you know it or not, learned to accomplish your goals, keeping intact you sanity and wit and I hope, your feelings of self-worth.
That accomplishment is what assures me that most of you or all of you, as soon as you leave this place, are going to do just fine, some more than others.
But remember this: every step along the way, you will encounter roadblocks. These roadblocks will take form of people who don't wish you well, people who don't want you to succeed. And when you come across these folks, and you will, remember that you survived the pettiness of high school, so you can survive just about anything else that comes your way.
I hope when you leave here you'll find something you care passionately about, if you haven't found that already, and that you will pursue those passions for the rest of your lives. I hope you experience a lot of joy, and I hope that when your days are just about done, you'll look back and honestly say to yourself that you did some good in this world. But always remember your family here at East High and the colors red, white, and gold.
Now, after you receive your diploma, please leave, especially YOU CHAD."
Everyone laughed as Jack finished his speech and applauded and then laughed harder as Chad exclaimed what must be his favorite word, "Hey!"
"Brava for that wonderful speech Coach Bolton! And Mr. Danforth please do listen to Coach Bolton and leave!" Ms. Darbus said causing Chad to say his favorite word yet again and people to laugh yet again before she continued, "Now, we will have a piano solo from an amazing play writer and composer from our past and hopefully future musicals, our very own senior, Ms. Kelsi Nielsen."
Kelsi smiled at Ms. Darbus before walking over to the baby grand piano on the stage and getting ready to play it. Five minutes later, she finished playing of the songs she wrote only cords for and then went back to her seat after bowing at the clapping and cheering audience.
"Now, it's my pleasure to present the awards to our seniors," Mr. Matsui said with a smile before he started speaking again. "First off, I'll start with the Highest Honor Awards which is awardered to the Top Fifteen Students in the class based on academics and extracurricular along with school and community activities. Jonathan Anderson…Louis Austin…Jessica Ayers…Zeke Baylor…Troy Bolton…Martha Cox…Jason Cross…Chad Danforth…Ryan Evans…Sharpay Evans…Sonni Gordnier…Mercedes Kay…Ashlee Kio…Taylor McKessie…Gabriella Montez…Brady Nicholas…Kelsi Nielsen…Kathryn Sanders…and Melissa Snow. Congratulations!"
The ones who got the Top Fifteen Honor Student Awards had gotten plaques. Each plaque was white marble with a silver engraving plate that read their full names, what the plaque was for, graduation year, the date, and from what school.
"The next awards are the Bank of America Certificates of Achievement which is given by the Bank of America honoring those for their achievement in every subject and each teacher will give out the certificates to the students who got them in that subject," Mr. Matsui said before Ms. Darbus took over.
"I'm happy to award a Bank of America Certificates in Music to…Kelsi Nielsen…Sharpay Evans…Ryan Evans…Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez. They will also all receive one for Drama," Ms. Darbus said happily as she handed each of the them two different certificates.
"A Bank of America Certificate in American Sign Language goes to Ms. Kathryn Sanders and Mr. Riley Wilson," the American Sing Language teacher, Mrs. McGee, awarded to the two seniors.
"A Bank of America Certificate Award in Dance goes to Ms. Martha Cox and Mr. Ryan Evans," the dance teacher, Ms. Shay, awarded to couple.
"A Bank of America Certificate in English go to Gabriella Montez, Taylor McKessie, Melissa Snow, and Sonni Gordnier," Mrs. McIssac awarded the four surprised senior girls who accepted them happily.
"The Bank of America Certificate in French goes to Gabriella Montez, Taylor McKessie, Ryan Evans, Kelsi Nielsen, Sharpay Evans, and Martha Cox," Ms. Ayers awarded to her most prized French students with a proud tone in her voice and a proud smile on her face.
"A Bank of America Certificate in Life Science goes to Gabriella Montez…Taylor McKessie…Martha Cox…Ryan Evans…Jonathan Anderson…and Louis Austin," Mrs. Brewer announced as everyone clapped for each senior.
"A Bank of America Certificate in Mathematics goes to…Gabriella Montez…Taylor McKessie…Martha Cox…Kelsi Nielsen…Sharpay Evans…Ryan Evans…Zeke Baylor…and Marjorie Ramos," Ms. Wiltrout awarded the above seniors.
"A Bank of America Certificate in Religion goes to Riley Wilson," the religion teacher, Mr. Bay, awarded Riley who smiled and happily excepted it.
"And the last Bank of America Certificates that will be given are the ones for Social Studies and these go to…Troy Bolton…Gabriella Montez…Taylor McKessie…Chad Danforth…Sharpay Evans…Ryan Evans…Zeke Baylor…Martha Cox…Jason Cross…and Kelsi Nielsen," Mr. Harrier awarded each wildcat as people clapped happily.
"Congratulations to the seniors who were awarded A Bank of America Certificates of Achievement. And now if you'll all please give a round of applause as each senior who was given a scholarship is recognized and given a special congratulations award from the school board," Mr. Matsui said as a cart of Reach For the Stars All Star silver figurine with a black base and silver engraving plate was rolled out onstage along with a pile of certificates and the scholarships. After each senior was recognized and given an award from the school along with scholarships, Mr. Matsui started talking again, "These next awards are given by the Bank of America who also gives out Plaques for Excellence. So these Bank of America Plaques for Excellence goes to…Gabriella Montez who gets the Bank of America Plaque of Excellence in the field of law. A Bank of America Plaque of Excellence in the Field of Fine Arts go to Gabriella Montez. A Bank of America Plaque of Liberal Arts go to Gabriella Montez…Troy Bolton…Sharpay Evans…Ryan Evans…and Kelsi Nielsen. And a Bank of America Plaque of Excellence in the Field of Science and Mathematics go to Martha Cox…Taylor McKessie…Gabriella Montez…Jonathan Anderson…Sonni Gordnier…Brandy Nicholas…Riley Wilson…and Ashlee Kio.
I am also proud and very pleased to award the Class of 2009 a Plaque with all their names on it for getting the Highest Honors in all of New Mexico. Congratulations Class of 2009 on a job very well done!
And now come the highest awards a Senior can get. The Mary Gabriel Award for Excellence in Sportsmanship is an award that honors a senior girl who exemplifies outstanding sportsmanship by her faithfulness to the team spirit and by her undaunted loyalty to her team members at all times. And I am very proud to award this award to Ms. Gabriella Montez, who in BOTH basketball and volleyball has done all of the mentioned to get this award. Congratulations Ms. Montez!" Mr. Matsui said as everyone clapped for her and cheered for Gabriella…well, okay the Lakers with family, her family, the wildcats and parents, but most importantly her team members that were either on the basketball or volleyball team that were either graduating or came to watch and congratulate their graduating team mates were the loudest heard in the stadium.
Gabriella, shell shocked, walked up on stage and shook Mr. Matsui's hand before she excepted a beautiful crystal award that had a shooting star on it with an engraving on it that read:
The Mary Gabriel Award for Excellence in Sportsmanship
Presented to Gabriella Montez for Excellent Sportsmanship in Volleyball and Basketball.
East High School
Class of 2009
June 5, 2009
Everyone or some took pictures as Gabriella excepted it before they all listened to Mr. Matsui again, "There is a similar award that is awarded to a Senior graduating boy, and it's The Joe Diamond Award for Excellence in Sportsmanship. And this award is awarded to Mr. Troy Bolton who has showed dedication, loyalty, and outstanding sportsmanship to his teammates. Congratulations Mr. Bolton!"
Troy, also shell shocked, went up and excepted an almost look alike to Gabriella but it read:
The Joe Diamond Award for Excellence in Sportsmanship Award
Presented to Troy Bolton for Excellent Sportsmanship in Basketball
East High School
Class of 2009
June 5, 2009
"The next award is the M. Russell Service Award which honors a senior who shows consistent commitment in serving those in need. She or he carries on the spirit of East High, God, and all of Albuquerque by responding to people in need was immediate and practical. And this award is going to be awarded to…Ms. Taylor McKessie! Congratulations Ms. McKessie!"
Taylor, shell shocked and proud of herself, walked up onstage and accepted a beautiful square glass award with a star holder that read:
M. Russell Service Award
Presented to Taylor McKessie
East High School
Class of 2009
June 5, 2009.
"The next award, The Bailey Leadership Award, honors a senior whose actions and examples encourage and inspire her or his fellow students to strive together to achieve those goals which promote the growth and well being of the Albuquerque District. I'm proud to present this award to Mr…Troy Bolton. Congratulations Mr. Bolton!" Mr. Matsui said and gave a shell shocked Troy a beautiful crystal diamond shape award with a crystal base with an engraving that read:
Bailey Leadership Award
Presented to Troy Bolton
East High School
Class of 2009
June 5, 2009
After Mr. Matsui awarded the Board of Directors Award for Academic Excellence to Martha, he awarded the last award, "This last award, the highest award, the East High School Principal's Award for General Excellence is conferred upon a graduating senior who exemplifies the spirit of East High by putting the welfare of others above her or his own interests. He or she his chosen for his or her generous service, dedication to the East High Spirit, and for general achievement in curricular and co-curricular aspects of school life. With much happiness I am proud to present this award to…Ms. Gabriella Montez. Even though she's only been at East High School for two years, she has done so much for this and she has changed the school and for the better. Congratulations Ms. Montez, you deserve it!"
Gabriella, even more shell shocked, walked up onstage with tears glistening in her eyes, and accepted the beautiful gem-cut circle crystal award on a solid crystal base that had an engraving on it that read:
East High School Principal's Award for General Excellence
Presented to Gabriella Montez
Presented by Principal Matsui
East High School
Class of 2009
June 5, 2009
Finally it was the time every senior was waiting for and the time that every parent was dreading even though they were proud, it was time to give the diplomas out.
Mr. Matsui smiled and started to read down the list in alphabetical order by last names of the Senior class, "…Zeke Lake Baylor…Troy Alexander Bolton who will be given his diploma by his father Coach Jack Bolton, fellow faculty member here at East."
"Congrats son, I'm proud of you!" Jack said as him and Troy shared a manly hug.
"Thanks Dad. I love you," Troy whispered back before he walked off to the stage, but not before waving to his mom who was shedding tears, the other moms surrounding her in comfort, them to ready to shed tears as soon as their teen (or teens) was name's were announced.
"Martha Lynn Cox…Jason Allen Cross…Chad Nicholas Danforth," Mr. Matsui said.
Chad smiled and jumped on stage to accept his diploma before he "stole" the microphone from Mr. Matsui and yelled, "This is the last chance I get to do this so make it a good one. And WHAT TEAM?!"
"WILDCATS!" The seniors yelled back.
"WHAT TEAM?!"
"WILDCATS!"
"WHAT TEAM?!"
"WILDCATS!"
"WILDCATS?!"
"GET'CHA HEAD IN THE GAME!" The Seniors yelled back as they stood up and clapped loudly.
"Now after that excitement the rest of our seniors, Ryan Joshua Evans…Sharpay Anne Evans…Taylor Annabelle McKessie…Gabriella Marie Montez…Kelsi Nielsen," Mr. Matsui said and each and everyone cheered as each Senior was given their diploma.
After each senior sat back down, the cheering quieted down after a good thirty minutes before Mr. Matsui spoke again, "And now please give a warm round of applause to Mr. Troy Bolton who was asked to give a final farewell speech tonight."
Troy smiled and walked up onstage and to gain courage he locked his eyes with those of this fiancée's before he began to give his speech, "Thank you Mr. Matsui, teachers, board members, faculty, family, honored guests and the class of 2009.
When, I was asked to give the farewell remarks, I freaked because I didn't know what to say until a month ago when I was sitting with my fiancée, Gabriella Montez, and my friends, no sorry, FAMILY: Chad Danforth, Jason Cross, Taylor McKessie, Kelsi Nielsen, Ryan Evans, Martha Cox, Sharpay Evans, and Zeke Baylor; and we started talking about memories of the last two years and bout the future.
They helped me realize this isn't farewell, it's just an ending to a chapter and a starting of a new chapter in your life. It is the beginning of something new.
It was right then that I started thinking about Thomas Jefferson on the Declaration of Independence and the part about our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. And I remember thinking how did he know to put the pursuit part in there? That maybe happiness is something that we can only pursue and maybe we can actually never have it. No matter what. How did he know that?
So I will leave you with this: East High is a place where teachers encouraged us to break the status quo and define ourselves as we choose. Where a jock can cook up a mean Crème Brulee…" Troy's eyes traveled to Zeke who smiled as if to say 'you know it' before he looked at Martha who got up and did a little dance move as Troy talked about her, "and a brainiac can BREAK DOWN on the dance floor." And as Troy said the next part, each wildcat hugged Gabriella as Troy's eyes stayed locked with hers as he spoke, "It's a place where one person, if it's the right person, changes us ALL. East High is having friends we'll keep for the rest of our lives, and that means we REALLY are 'all in this together'. Cause once a Wildcat, ALWAYS a Wildcat!
And with that all I have to say is just remember, the unexamined life may not be worth living, but the unlived life is not worth examining. Make sure your life is worth examining. Happiness is temporary and fleeting…Joy is the right goal. Pursue Happiness.
Congratulations class of 2009! We made it ! So keep your head in the game! Thank you!"
"Thank you for those wonderful farewell words, Mr. Bolton. And now to honor America, two most prized senior girls, Gabriella Montez and Sharpay Evans, singing for one final time here at East High the National Anthem. And before they sing I would just like to ask that you all stand and remove your hats and then please stay standing after they're done for the singing of the Alma Mater. Thank you," Mr. Matsui said as Gabriella and Sharpay without their gowns and caps on walked up on stage showing off their beautiful outfits.
Smiling Sharpay and Gabriella linked arms and locked their eyes with their guys' before they began to sing as the band started to play the chords to the song:
Oh, say can you see by the dawn's early light,
What so proudly we hailed at the twilight's last gleaming
Whose broad stripes and bright stars thru the perilous flight,
O'er the ramparts we watched were so gallantly streaming
And the rocket's glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Oh, say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave//
After Sharpay and Gabriella were done everyone cheered loudly and some woof whistled before they curtsied and then waited for the seniors to join them up on stage as they all got ready to sing the Alma Mater. Together, all the seniors (ten rows across and behind) linked arms and got ready to sing as the band began to play the chords to the alma mater:
Oh, happy days at East High!
How swiftly you are passing by.
You're gliding by like birds that fly,
Across the sky at East High.
But these fair days at East High,
Will never from our lives pass by.
They'll shine as bright as stars on high,
That shed their light on East High.
Then may God bless you, East High.
Help you to give as days go by,
A new desire to still aspire,
To things yet higher, oh East High!//
"Thank you for that wonderful performance Class of 2009! And now if you'll all please bow your heads as Pastor Baney gives the benediction, thank you," Mr. Matsui said, everyone clapped for both Mr. Matsui and the Pastor before they bowed their heads.
"Until we meet again…may the kindness of God precede you. May the wisdom of God be with you. May the light of God follow you.
May the Lord walk beside you to comfort you. May the Lord walk above you to watch over you. May the Lord walk behind you to keep you safe. May the Lord walk before you to show you the way.
May God hold you in the palm of His hand. May you allow Him to mold you into what He wants you to be. May you joyfully fill the role he has given to you and feel peace in your soul.
May you live as long as you want, and never want as long as you live. Amen," Pastor Baney said and everyone said 'Amen' with him.
"Thank you Pastor. And now I would like to end the night with a song sung from two of our prized students or the Golden Couple as the students have started calling them, Troy Bolton and Gabriella Montez who will be singing a song called, 'Everyday' which was composed by another senior, Ms. Kelsi Nielsen," Mr. Matsui said and everyone clapped and cheered as Kelsi not in her gown or cap sat down at the piano began to play as Troy and Gabriella (both not in their gown and cap) as they held hands with a microphone in their other hand as they began to sing, just like that night at Lava Springs.
(Troy in Bold, Gabriella in Italics, Both in Bold Italics, Troyella & all in Bold Italics Underlined)
Once in a lifetime
Means there's no second chance
So I believe that you and me
Should grab it while we can
Make it last forever
And never give it back
It's our turn, and I'm loving where we're at
Because this moment's really all we have
Everyday
Of our lives
Wanna find you there, wanna hold on tight
Gonna run
While we're young
And keep the faith
Everyday
From right now,
Gonna use our voices and scream out loud
Take my hand
Together we will celebrate
Celebrate
Oh, everyday
They say that you should follow
And chase down what you dream,
But if you get lost and lose yourself
What does it really mean?
Oooooohhhhhh
No matter where we're going
Oh yeah! It starts from where we are
There's more to life
When we listen to our hearts
And because of you,
I've got the strength to start
Yeah, yeah, yeah
Everyday
Of our lives
Wanna find you there
Wanna hold on tight
Gonna run
While we're young
And keep the faith
Ooooooo
Everyday
From right now
Gonna use our voices and scream out loud
Take my hand
Together we
Will celebrate
Oh, everyday
We're taking it back,
We're doing it here
Together!
It's better like that,
And stronger now
Than ever
We're not gonna lose
'Cause we get to choose
That's how it's gonna be!
Everyday
Of our lives,
Wanna find you there, wanna hold on tight
Gonna run
While we're young
And keep the faith
Keep the faith!
The audience made up of friends and family of the Senior Class along with the faculty and board members clapped and cheered as the senior class, that worked and sang with them at Lava Springs began to sing with them:
Everyday
Of our lives
Wanna find you there, wanna hold on tight
Gonna run
While we're young
And keep the faaaaaaaiiiiiiiitttttthhhhhhh
Woahhhhhhhh Yeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaahhhhh
Woahhhhhhhh Yeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaahhhhh
Woahhhhhhhh Yeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaahhhhh
Everyday
Everyday
From right now,
Right now
Gonna use our voice and scream out loud
Take my hand
Take my hand
Together we
Will celebrate,
Everyday!
Live everyday!
Ooh everyday!
Love everyday!
Whoooaaahhh, whoooaaahhh
Ooh everyday!
Live everyday!
Nah, nah everyday!
Love everyday!
Ooooo Yeahhhh
Ooooo Yeahhhh
I say everyday!
Everyday!
Everyday!
Everyday!
Everyday!
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
Everyday
Every
Day
Everydayyyyyyyyyy
Everyday
Yeahhhh
Yeah
Yeah
"SENIORS YOU MAY TURN YOUR TASSELS! AND LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, OUR EAST HIGH SCHOOL OF ALBURQUERQUE, NEW MEXICO WILDCATS' CLASS OF 2009! CONGRATULATIONS!" Mr. Matsui yelled into the microphone and everyone cheered and threw their hats up in the air but not before they all got together and two HUGE Wildcat head before they all started to celebrate by singing Queen's We Are the Champions!
TBC....
Well, this has been a super long 111 page chapter! I hope you all enjoyed it and I though I would go all out for this one. I hope you all enjoyed this chapter. And I'm sad to say that there's only ONE (1) CHAPTER LEFT! I'm going to cry….
Final Chapter Title: High School Musical!
Trivia: If you look closely you can see all the leads wearing matching what?
A. Necklaces
B. Bracelets
C. Rings
D. Don't Know/None of The Above
I decided to add a quote and a couple of poems, hope you like them, toodles:
You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. You're on your own. And you know what you know. You are the guy who'll decide where to go.-Dr. Seuss
Goodbye, dear friend and graduate!
Our golden time is over now,
Our time of nothing more than time,
Days of simply being I will always treasure how
Your love for me slipped into mine,
Embracing me where courage ends.
----------------
Graduation Day is the climax of a dream. A parental dream that began when a child is born, and their hope come true it would seem. A triumph held after periods of forlorn, A feeling of pride and euphoria years awayFor a daughter or son - Graduation is a peak of success for the graduate, Not only for the graduate but parents too.A joyful event after many years they had to wait, Realizing the glorious thrill of a dream come true, A genuine smile accompanied by a deep sigh, Often a handkerchief in hand as the class goes is a deserving, hard earned goalWith mortarboard and gown as foretold, A gratifying service of the mind and soulIn a simple and beautiful sheepskin toldThat the graduate fulfilled the educational rule. At last, for the mother and father, a dream come Day! Joseph T. Renaldi
-------------
Graduation
Exciting, Emotional
Saying final goodbyes
Tears welling in eyes
Commencement
Katie O'Connell
------------
Graduation; the door you
Go through to leave high
School to go find something new,
Even though it's hard to say's a time to move on,
Let the years of being a teen
Become foregone
And transition onto the adulthood you go through the doorway,
And out into the hall of many
Possibilities; the choices are like a buffet
Where you can choose what you like or any.[2007] Alyssa Scheidemann