Graduation ceremony returns to Bandera

The Bandera High School Class of 2021 is the first to graduate at Bulldog Stadium since the late 1990s, granting a long-time request by parents that the graduation ceremony return to Bandera from the college locations used in San Antonio.

This year, parents no longer had to struggle with San Antonio traffic or worry about graduates driving all the way back to Bandera after the ceremony.

The move is also likely to inspire more hometown spirit. Many local high schools also graduate on campus like Hondo, Medina, Utopia, Boerne, Ingram and Comfort.

While the return to Bulldog Stadium does create some trepidation about the heat or possibly rain delays, most parents seemed to be delighted with the change.

Retired BISD educator Diane Payne remarked “it’s one of the reasons people want to live in a small town: graduation right on the football field.”

Numerous alumni also weighed in positively about the move back to Bulldog Stadium.

“When I graduated back in 2002 at UTSA, it just didn’t have that small town feel. I’m so glad this has returned, and I am looking forward to seeing my son graduate on that field next year,” said Robin Jones.

Even while enduring late afternoon heat and a bright afternoon sun, parents were relieved and proud to see their students flip their tassels from senior to graduate.

With their teachers accompanying them as a last send off, the 124 graduates marched onto the field in their royal blue robes as this solemn occasion marked an end of the era known as “high school.”

Regina Johnston, BHS librarian described the class as resilient.

“The Class of 2021 has had to ‘roll with the punches’ and navigate the ups and downs of a global pandemic. I am so proud of each and every one of them,” she said.

Soccer Coach Westley Miller characterized the class as unforgettable.

“National champions, state competitors, and pranksters. They have left their mark on Bandera High School,” Miller said.

The ceremony maintained the traditional feel as students sang, spoke and received their diplomas just as graduates had in years past.

The 90-minute ceremony went off without a hitch, ending after sundown.

The weather held as cloudy skies with a slight breeze set the scene. No backup plans or rain delays were needed this year.

“Each year teachers have tears in their eyes as they watch their students graduate. This class has great aspirations and I know they are going to do quite well for themselves,” remarked BHS science teacher Dan Zavorka.

The 2021 class entered the stadium as students and exited as alumni going into the wider world outside of Bandera.