Students of the Manteca Unified School District celebrated a major milestone Wednesday by achieving English language mastery.

They were honored at the Reclassification Ceremony, which opened with a captivating performance, including Folkloric dancers and MECha Dancers from Weston Ranch High.

MUSD’s Coordinator of English Language Development Sandy del Mundo kicked off the special event by congratulating students on this massive accomplishment.

“Mastering a language while balancing academic content is no small feat, and you have achieved it,” she said. “We celebrate not just your English proficiency, but the unique perspectives, cultures, and voices you bring to our schools and communities.

“You are bilingual, biliterate, and truly brilliant.”

Elementary school teacher Jose Modesto and Claudie Zarate, a student from French Camp School, were among the speakers.

Both delivered inspiring messages, encouraging students to embrace their multilingual abilities.

“After being reclassified, doors began to open, and everything became easier. Reclassification wasn’t just a personal achievement—it involved my family as well,” Modesto said.

He added: “Today, you see only a small part of what your son or daughter can achieve through education; however, there is more. Congratulations, everyone! Keep going, and educate yourselves as much as possible.”

Board clerk Marie Freitas and with Trustee Bob Wallace and Trustee Kathy Howe celebrated students by proudly handing them their special certificates.

They came from the various MUSD school sites – namely, French Camp, George Mc Parland, Golden West, Neil Hafley, New Haven, East Union, Joseph Widmer, Mossdale, Lathrop Elementary, Lathrop High School, Joshua Cowell, Sequoia, Shasta, Woodward, Manteca High School.

Those students crossed the stage to celebrate their proficiency in the English language.