LONGVIEW, Texas — On Friday, graduations took place across East Texas. High school seniors and families gathered at multiple stadiums to celebrate their accomplishments.
Longview High School’s graduating class of 2023 was full of excitement from many students. Some of which have known each other since they were little kids.
Abbygail Suarez and Leilah Hunt said they are friends who are practically sisters.
Other graduates had a few nervous feelings like Christian Amaya who said he was a little scared he might fall off the graduating stage.
Regardless, they all have their plans set as they start life beyond high school.
"I'm going to be studying for ultrasound tech at TJC," Suarez said.
"I'm studying for real estate," Hunt said.
"I'll probably work then save up some money for college," Amaya said. "Then start college. That's my plans."
Lobo Stadium was full of proud friends and family members like Brittani Culberson who was excited to see her daughter Harmony walk the stage.
"Very emotional for sure. I'll get emotional today, but I'm very proud of her. I'm so happy and we have a lot of more family coming so I'm happy to see family too," Culberson said.
Also graduating on Friday was Tyler Legacy High School’s class of 2023. The Christus Trinity Mother Frances Rose Stadium was full of supportive family members.
"We're here to see (our goddaughter) graduate and she's going to be going to TJC in the fall," said graduation attendee Polly Jones. "We've just been along for her journey through high school and supported her all the way and we're excited to be here."
Proud grandmother Wanda Hubbard was thrilled to see her first and oldest grandson graduate.
"I am so proud of him because he struggled, he went through some things, but he's actually walking on the stage," Hubbard said. "He's my first grandbaby to walk the stage and I am so proud of him."
Hubbard wants to share a message to her grandbaby and a message many graduates will probably hear as well.
"I'm so proud of you baby," Hubbard said. "No sky's the limit, do what you need to do and go for the goal. I love you."
Congratulation graduates of 2023!