Seen wearing earbuds in the morning, Keani walks through the halls listening to music, making the journey to Advanced Media Arts, English and Weight Training classes in style.
In the photos lining the E building walls, on media arts posters around the M building Keani’s name and face are easily recognized as a prominent contributor to the SMHS athletic, visual arts and clubs. Widely recognized even more is his last name, the direct descendant of Mr. and Ms. Cervantes, great names in the campus security and student services departments, Keani has a legacy household name at SMHS.
The school year starts, the club fair offers many opportunities to choose from, Keani joins cardistry club in which he practices his card and magic tricks, playing with cards and making them fly. Keani doesn’t just sit, he immerses himself within all that he can do to help, he learns and carries out procedures to heal injuries in the athletic training club. Keani also assures himself courage to save those on the game board in dungeons and dragons.
The autumn athletic season begins shortly, team photos from previous athletic teams line the walls of the pool building, Keani appears in three of those photos. Outside when the pool covering is rolled up in anticipation, the boys water polo team arrives, Keani among them with a smile on his face, prepared to help the team move up the ranks.
As the wrestling mat is set, many chairs line the sides of the gym, the entire team gathers around in a circle to chant the wrestler’s name, Keani’s shouts are one of the loudest. Saying that “the spirit at SMHS is the most memorable” and that our spirit sets us apart from other schools, Keani is sure to uphold these standards as he celebrates track spirit week and brings spirit to all invitationals.
Keani is not only one of Myles closest friends but also is, “always here for me, like I’m here for him too.” Myles Guerrero remembers when “we went to a graduation party,” while walking from the event, “this guy came and scared us, so we ran, then he puked,” recalling this comical instance that enhanced their friendship.
As “one of the very few tri sport athletes,” and “the only student I [Mr. Labbie] have had all eight semesters of his high school career,” Mr. Labbie is proud to recall his ability of “maintaining and increasing his strength, speed, and agility.”
“looking forward to seeing what he goes on to accomplish,” Ms. Fanton notes Keani’s “ impressive work with all of his projects from the very first one of a digital illustration of John Wick.”
He wants to cherish his last few moments with the people he enjoys being around before pursuing his dream of becoming a graphic designer also working toward his goal of becoming a UFC/Mixed Martial Arts champion.
Stating his farewell to his high school era, “Ima Go Home, Go Bed,” Keani Cervantes leaves with his head held high.