Written By: Holly Pulley, Staff Writer
VAPA HONOREES: Seniors with a future in the entertainment industry announce their college decisions.
Graduation comes closer by the minute and ten Class of 2023 students have dedicated their further education to the Arts. These graduates’ paths lead them to all different kinds of artistic expression- drawing, painting, writing, singing, composing, producing, directing, and managing. This generations’ future visual and auditory experience is in good hands with River Ballantyne, Melissa Lysiak, Jaren Cochren, Xuan-Anh Biggs, Pierre Shwabe, Heaven Zaniga, John-David Romo, Twila Fraser-Hewlett, Izzy Hoffman, and Vincent Garavito aiming to play big roles in it.
A ceremony was held for the scholars on April 25, 2023 in the Littleworth Theatre. Many VAPA classes came to celebrate them as well as friends of the seniors and teachers asked to speak on their behalf. Principal Hansen started the event with an opening speech, where he commended the students on their college decisions and choice to continue their Visual and Performing Arts education. His father used to tell him “find something you love and chase it,” and he was proud these young adults were doing the same. He hopes that younger classes see these seniors and know their “dream is out there, it’s a reality, and you can get to that point if you believe in yourself.”
After Hansen’s inspiring oration, teachers came up to speak about each student. Mrs. Hernandez spoke for River Ballantyne, describing their Poly High career and greatly appreciating their involvement in Poly Band and Performing Arts programs. “They were always calm and supportive to every member…and that is a special skill that we all benefit from,” explained Hernandez. Hernandez wished Ballantyne a tearful farewell and a happy future ahead. River Ballantyne will be going to RCC to study music and then transfer to a four year college and major in musical arts. Hernandez also spoke for Vincent Garavito. Her speech was nothing but lovely. “As a little middle school tuba player, he asked to be part of a master class with his now college mentor… and he’s never let time be a factor in his learning. His passion is what makes him so talented, and U of R is going to be very fortunate to have him.” Vincent Garavito is planning on attending the University of Redlands, and is not quite certain on what he will study, but he does know he “love[s] music and wants to learn more.” We bears wish you luck, River and Vincent!
Mr. Robinson spoke for Melissa Lysiak, and had nothing but stunning reviews for not only her work ethic, but her character as well. “Her passion for music is inspiring, academically, she is everything you could ask for, and she’s never let adversity step in her way,” he explained. He cannot wait to see how she impacts the world with her talents and the sheer amount of people she will inspire, as he has no doubt she’ll leave a mark. Lysiak will be attending Chapman University with the help of many scholarships and wants to be involved in “marketing, managing, and promotion” for the music business, but she’s not entirely sure yet. “I just know I love music and want to stay in that business,” she commented, “and I feel like college will help me find exactly what I want to do.” Can’t wait to see you winning Grammys, Melissa!
Mr. Markermorse spoke for Jaren Cochren, Xuan-Anh Biggs, Pierre Schwabe and Twila Fraser-Hewlett. While all speeches were beautiful and entertaining- the Markermorse trademark, of course- they all shared a similar message: all of these seniors were kind, creative, and knew how to be leaders. Lisa Rankins, former Poly Theatre class teacher, also spoke on their behalf, recalling memories of the last show they did together and how amazed she was at their growth. “I was so blessed to work with these kids when they were little baby freshmen,” she said with a laugh. “When I heard today was signing day, I had to come and congratulate my babies.” Mr. Markermorse said “All of these kids are incredible. They are smart, and know how to take charge, and all stay true to themselves.” Jaren Cochren will be going to California State University of San Bernardino where he plans to major in theater arts with an emphasis on acting. He plans to “work on [his] work ethics… and learn about the ethics of an actor.” Xuan-Anh Biggs will be attending University of Southern California where they will study Cinematic Arts. They have “found [their] home in video arts,” and also plan to get a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Screenwriting. Pierre Schwabe will be going to the University of California Los Angeles to study Theatre Design and Production. “The one thing in my life that I want to keep doing is theater,” Schwabe commented, “and I’m so happy to continue doing that.” Twila Fraser-Hewlett will be attending the New York University where they will be studying “The amount of hard work necessary for the performing arts is just out of this world,” Fraser-Hewlett said. “I wanted to be a part of that so bad.” Fraser-Hewlett was very nervous to commit to a college and make a decision, but she is very proud of herself for trying as many places as she could and choosing NYU. Twila Fraser-Hewlett will be studying Performing Arts and wants to participate in all forms of artistic expression. Poly wishes these inspiring seniors great luck in their careers!
Mrs. Harbereder spoke for Heaven Zuniga. Though she has only known Zuniga for a short amount of time, as Mrs. Harbereder only joined our faculty just recently, she has “quickly come to know what an exceptional person and student she is.” Zuniga is largely self-taught in music composition, and the motivation to keep learning is fueled by her sheer love for music. Harbereder described Zuniga as “extremely driven and self-motivated,” and knows she will be a successful artist in the future. Heaven Zuniga will be studying music and composition at Riverside Community College. Her goals in life are to “pursue [her] dreams and [become] a song-writer, singer, and music producer.” After RCC she plans to transfer to a four year university where she can further her education in music. Heaven Zuniga’s passion is palpable, and we can’t wait to see her dreams come true.
Mrs. Walton spoke for John-David Romo, and her speech was full of adoration. “He’s reliable, he’s responsible, and consistently working to better himself. He’s the type of person that, if I need a National Anthem singer, I know I can depend on him to go and do great,” she said. Romo’s participation in Poly’s Choir program has been greatly appreciated by all of his classmates and mentors, and his passion for music is deeply admirable. John-David Romo will be attending California State University of Long Beach where he will be majoring in Performance. Romo can’t imagine a time where music didn’t play a huge role in his life, and this path seems like the best path for him. Congratulations, John-David Romo!
Lastly, Mrs. Beckman spoke for Izzy Hoffman. She was “very honored” when Izzy asked her to speak for them. Beckman adores Izzy and really appreciates all of the interactions they’ve had together as well as their work. She explains how Hoffman is “such a wonderful, critical thinker, and [their] constant asking for advice and how to improve is inspiring.” Izzy Hoffman will be attending California State Fullerton where they will study Studio Art. “I don’t think without [Beckman], I could’ve made the decision to go into an art career,” Hoffman confessed. They are very appreciative of all the people that “believed in [their] ability” to create, and can’t wait to see where life takes them. We are excited to see your work as well, Izzy!
Poly is proud of each of these ten seniors and wishes them the best of luck on their future endeavors in their visual and performing arts commitments.