LYNWOOD — The Lynwood Unified School District celebrated the accomplishments, culture and resilience of about 70 African-American students during the ninth annual Rites of Passage ceremony — a tradition that honors promoting eighth-grade students and graduating seniors as they launch into the next step in their academic journeys.
Hosted by the Equity, Access and Instructional Services Department in collaboration with the National College Resources Foundation, Rites of Passage serves as a space to celebrate culture and identity, as well as acknowledge academic achievements, ensuring all students feel seen, valued and heard.
“I think it’s important to have events like this so people can feel appreciated,” Lynwood High School senior Bryce Forrest said. “I feel like when people go without recognition, they drift off into doing other things, so I think this was a great way to bring everybody out and appreciate them.”
The event featured an opening performance led by traditional African drummers, followed by student recognitions, messages and cultural tributes.
“Being included in today’s events gives us the opportunity to come together as people and celebrate our success and the journey that’s to come,” said Firebaugh High School senior Codi Thompson, a member of the Young Black Achievers Student Union who plans to attend Harris-Stowe State University in Missouri.
Many students left with accolades that marked their accomplishments, including medals, certificates of recognition and scholarships. One of the awards was the Shirley Ann Davis Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to the top academic students at Lynwood, Firebaugh and Vista high schools.
The inaugural Shawna Dinkins Memorial Scholarship, which is awarded to students who have exhibited leadership, was also presented for the first time in honor of the late Deputy Superintendent Shawna Dinkins, who died earlier this year.
“This is a moment to let our African-American students know how much they are loved and appreciated here in Lynwood,” Superintendent Gudiel R. Crosthwaite said. “As we celebrate their achievements and transitions, we also reaffirm our commitment to creating spaces where every student is seen, valued and empowered to thrive.”
The district hosted its middle school and promotion ceremonies from June 9 to 11.
