Nataly Buhr, valedictorian at San Ysidro High School wrote the graduation speech that we all dreamed of writing in school. She thanks all of the staff and teachers that have helped her along the way, but laid into some that have given up.




Here is the transcript of her speech:


Good evening parents, friends, staff, and class of 2019. It’s a pleasure to speak to you here today. I’d like to give recognition to those who have greatly influenced me during the past 4 years. To my mother and father, you are the most hard working and caring people that I know. Especially in this last year with all the craziness of applying to colleges and coming closer to adulthood, you have been wonderful mentors and role models. Thank you for your endless love and guidance. 


To the teachers, Madam Rosa, Ms. Monnagin, Ms. Gomez, Mr. Trialino, Mr. Solomen, and Mr. Aliman, thank you for being so invested in your student's education and wellbeing. You are the most intelligent, inspiring and supportive individuals I have had the pleasure of learning from while at SYHS. 


To my friends, thank you for always being by my side. I appreciate your love and support always and will treasure the memories we made at this school. 


To my counselor, thanks for teaching me to fend for myself. You were always unavailable to my parents and I despite appointments. Only in these past few weeks with graduation and award ceremonies coming up did you begin making your appearance. And might I note, you expressed to me your joy in knowing that one of your students was valedictorian when you had absolutely no role in my achievements. 


To the staff in the main office, thank you for teaching me how to be resourceful. Your negligence to inform me of several scholarships until the day they were due potentially caused me to miss out on thousands of dollars. When applying for a work permit you repeatedly turned me away despite confirming with my employer and parents that all my paperwork was filled correctly. I’ve had to escalate issues with staff to an assistant principal various times to reach any sort of solution. 


To the teacher who was regularly intoxicated during class this year, thank you for using yourself as an example to teach students about the dangers of alcoholism. Being escorted by police out of school left a lasting impression. I hope that future students and staff learn from this example. 


Thank you, class of 2019.