The Metro ride to Grad Night from East LA is more than just transportation—it’s an adventure that binds classmates, celebrates culture, and marks the beginning of an unforgettable night.
The Metro doors slide open, and a wave of excited seniors rush in, their laughter filling the train car. Dressed in their best outfits, with caps and gowns in their laps, they exchange memories and hopes for the night ahead. For students in East LA, the Metro ride to Grad Night isn’t just about getting there—it’s part of the celebration itself.
The Metro ride to Grad Night has become a beloved tradition for students in East Los Angeles, symbolizing community, unity, and the culmination of years of hard work. It’s not just a mode of transportation—it’s a journey that binds classmates and celebrates everything they’ve accomplished together. The ride starts at local Metro stations, where students from different schools and neighborhoods gather, united by the anticipation of this special night. “I’ve been taking the Metro for years, but this night feels different,” says a senior at Esteban Torres High School. “It’s not just about going to Grad Night. It’s about celebrating with people who come from the same place as me.” As students ride the train, they share stories, laughter, and excitement for what’s ahead. The Metro ride becomes more than just travel—it becomes a time to connect, reflect, and bond.
For many students in East LA, the Metro ride to Grad Night holds as much significance as the event itself. Schools like Garfield, Roosevelt, and Wilson send dozens of students to board the train together, marking a moment of unity and anticipation. As the train car fills with caps and gowns, it’s clear that this journey represents more than just a ride—it’s a celebration of their hard work and the community they come from. “This ride is a big part of our high school experience,” said Yuricely Perez, a senior at Esteban Torres High School. “It’s something we’ll always remember, not just because of Grad Night, but because of who we’re with and where we’re from.”
According to the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), over 70% of high school students in East LA rely on public transportation to get to school and events like Grad Night. This statistic highlights just how integral the Metro is to the student experience. For many, it’s not just a way to get from point A to point B—it’s an essential part of their daily life and a key part of celebrating major milestones.
Teachers and parents in East LA recognize the significance of this tradition. “It’s a moment of pride for them, a way to celebrate with their friends and community,” says a teacher at Esteban Torres High School. Many educators and school staff encourage students to cherish these moments, knowing how important they are in shaping the students’ memories of high school. Additionally, local community organizations have stepped in to help ensure that traditions like the Metro ride to Grad Night continue, offering support to students who rely on public transportation for big events. “Our community has always found a way to come together, and these experiences show the strength of our students,” says a parent of an Esteban Torres High School student.
The tradition of taking the Metro to Grad Night has been around for years, but its continuity hasn’t been without challenges. In the past, school buses were a common way to transport students to major events. However, with rising transportation costs and budget cuts, more students have turned to the Metro as a more accessible option. While this shift has allowed more students to partake in the tradition, it has also raised concerns about rising fares and safety. Efforts from local community groups have been crucial in preserving this tradition, such as campaigns to keep transportation affordable for students. Just a few years ago, East LA families and teachers rallied together to ensure that transportation wouldn’t stand in the way of students being able to attend events like Grad Night.
As the tradition continues, it’s vital that the community stays involved in supporting this shared experience. “If you want to help keep the Metro ride tradition alive, join the East LA Student Transportation Fundraiser or attend the upcoming LAUSD meeting on student resources. You can also donate to local school programs that help cover transportation costs for low-income students. Together, we can make sure that every student gets the chance to celebrate their accomplishments without worrying about how they’ll get there,” says a community organizer.
For East LA students, the Metro ride to Grad Night is a symbol of their hard work, community, and shared experiences. The bonds forged during that ride are lasting, and it’s crucial that we continue to support these traditions to ensure that future generations of students can experience the same joy, pride, and camaraderie. By standing together, we can ensure that the Metro ride to Grad Night remains an unforgettable part of their high school journey.