This year, 62 Venice High seniors were awarded a Jacket of Excellence and a Certificate of Commendation, which was nearly double the number of students who received a jacket last year.

Jackets of Excellence were awarded on Jan. 27, to students who have attended Venice High School two of three years, have a weighted GPA of 3.75 or higher, have no more than three unsatisfactory marks, and no more than seven absences per year.

This jacket tradition was started in 1984. Venice High School, along with community partners, has hosted an annual community luncheon where top students of their class are rewarded for their accomplishments.

“I was surprised when I was granted the news that I was eligible to receive a jacket because I didn’t come here all four years and when they changed the requirements, I was really happy,” said senior Esmeralda Nava. “Standing there with my jacket and my friends was really nice, and I felt good. It was a great experience and now I have a cool jacket to wear”.

“It felt really cool when I received my jacket because I truly feel like I accomplished something with 4 years of good grades, the jacket of excellence resembles dedication to me,” said senior class president Bryan Godfrey.

Many teachers, parents, and community members came to celebrate Venice’s top seniors. Los Angeles Unified School District Board member Steve Zimmer and former Venice High principal Bud Jacobs attended as well.

The luncheon, held in the East Gym because the cafeteria was too small, started with a violin performance, followed by the school choir. Dr. Oryla Wiedoeft then proceeded with her welcome speech. Afterwards, jackets were awarded to the 62 recipients. When each individual student was awarded their jacket, organizers presented a slide containing the institution they wish to attend and the career they wish to pursue.