With only a few days left of the 2025-2026 school year, many seniors feel the heartbreak that comes with saying goodbye to their favorite underclassmen. Additionally, many of these seniors commemorate the teachers who left the greatest impact on their High School career. From something as little as a thank you to something as big as a profession of love, these seniors radiate thanks for those who made school something worth showing up to.
Senior Natalie Cerda shares her thanks for one of Sierra Vista’s most passionate teachers, Mrs. Heather Foglia. Cerda shares, “Thank you for amplifying my love for history and never making a moment dull in class. When I become a teacher, I will definitely replicate your teaching style in hopes it gives the same effect it did on me, to them.” Furthermore, Aaron Soteras describes, “Ms. Foglia, thank you for genuinely being the best government and econ teacher. I wish I could’ve been in your class longer but your teachings still stick with me to this day, and will continue to resonate with how I carry myself.”
To find a teacher who makes students feel seen despite the hundreds of students they cater to every single day deserves praise. Morena Pereira Pais gives some of this praise to Dr. Valerie Marino. Pais explains, “I can’t begin to explain my gratitude towards you, my favorite teacher in the whole world. My time spent in your classroom really made me feel happy and seen. I hope to see you again very, very soon, and I’m sure we’ll have a lot of tea to tell <3”
While Sierra Vista holds many teachers who show students unwavering support, one specifically stands out to senior Daren Cubar. When describing Mr. Shane Gibson, Cubar shares, “Thank you truly for a supportive and amazing year gib! Even though it was my first year with you, I had a blast, and you made this senior year a million times better. Thank you so much for being so honest, supportive, and always there for me, and I will always remember what I’ve learned from you throughout this school year. I wish you nothing but the best :)”
Additionally, many students, such as Aaron Soteras, see the constant dedication teachers put into their programs and share how it inspires them. Soteras shares the impact that Commander Sergeant Major Robert Brown had on his life, “CSM Brown, you have shaped me into the leader I am today 4 long, turbulent, and steady years, you have watched me grow and evolve. The memories we have made will stick with me forever. Thank you for your unwavering dedication and commitment to the JROTC program. Till we meet again. – Cadet Captain Aaron Soteras.”
Some students simply want to say thank you to their teachers for their kindness and for making class something they can look forward to. Katelyn Ruiz says thank you to Mr. Adam Claypool and wishes him the best, “Thank you for being the coolest teacher ever. Rock on in forensics.”
While teachers made a great impact on these seniors, their experiences were further heightened by the underclassmen whom they met along the way. For example, Laila Alonso (12) says thank you to Erianna Molina (9), “Hey kiddo, I’m so proud of you, and I hope you always remember that. As I head into my senior year, I think back to being a freshman and having that one senior who believed in me just like I believe in you now. Make me proud, do your best, try your hardest, and never give up, even when things get tough. And no matter what happens, don’t let anyone bring you down or make you forget how capable you really are.”
Many seniors send their best wishes to their favorite sophomores. Dawei Du (12) wishes William Wallace (10) the very best, sharing, “I hope you make it through high school, I’ll be waiting for you in the real world.” Furthermore, Kayla Caywood (12) tells Kannen Kelly (10), “This year has been an amazing time and experience, and I’m so glad that we are friends. You’ve shown me what a true friend is, and I’m so grateful that I met you.” In addition to Du and Caywood, Aaron Soteras (12) shares his love for Sophia Garcia (10). Soteras shares, “To my dearly beloved, thank you for always pushing me to be my best self. In JROTC, I was able to grow as a leader with you by my side; we have won together, and we have failed together. Even though I am graduating and departing high school, you will always be in my heart and this time period with you. I love you, Sophia, and I will miss you and our days walking the hallways and telling each other not to be late to class forever, your dearest Aaron.” Destin Fines (12) expresses her thanks for Alicia-Lei Ambs (10), stating, “I’m so glad I met you, you’re the greatest person I’ve met this year. When I’m gone, I hope you achieve great things, and I know you will. I’m gonna miss you the most. Have fun And I Love you!!!”
Many seniors mourn the time that they spent with their favorite juniors. Eyesha Abanto (12) tells Annielene Soriano (11), “Thank you for always loving and supporting me. I will forever be grateful to have you, Annie!!” Furthermore, Abanto says goodbye to Marie Claire Seguros (11), stating, “Thank you, Claire, for always being kind and helpful!!” Additionally, Wil (Kaylee) Tuscany (12) expresses her gratitude for Mark (Mia) Sullivan (11). Tuscany explains, “Mark, you were there for Toby and me throughout our entire high school years. We both love you so much, and I don’t know where I would be without you. To you, my best friend and brother, I love you so much.”
