Local teacher walks across stage as graduate

Golden Oak second grade teacher Ashley Miriles had the opportunity to walk across the stage to collect her diploma from University of California Merced recently, with a little help from her class.

Miriles grew up in Shafter and attended Shafter schools throughout her childhood, up to and including graduating from Shafter High School. She always wanted to come back to her community once she graduated and give back to her hometown.

Miriles' graduation from UC Merced was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, giving her a unique chance to celebrate her graduation with her students.

Miriles wore a beautiful dress that she had her second grade class decorate. They drew and colored different scenes, including animals, flowers, portraits of her, as well as plenty of "I Love You"s. Richland Superintendent Rosa Romero said that this was such a happy occasion and one that she will cherish.

Romero said that she wanted to congratulate Mireles and applaud her ingenuity.

–Jamie Stewart