LOS ANGELES, June 5, 2025 — In a poignant celebration of resilience and community, Palisades Charter High School (PCHS) held its Class of 2025 graduation ceremony at the iconic Hollywood Bowl on Wednesday. The event marked a significant milestone for students and families who endured months of upheaval following the devastating Palisades Fire earlier this year.
The ceremony, attended by nearly 3,000 students and their families, featured heartfelt speeches from student leaders and faculty members. Principal Pamela Magee addressed the graduates, acknowledging the challenges they faced and commending their perseverance. “This class has shown incredible strength and unity,” Magee said. “Despite the obstacles, you have emerged stronger and more connected than ever.”
The decision to host the graduation at the Hollywood Bowl came after the PCHS campus suffered extensive damage in the Palisades Fire, which ignited on January 7, 2025. The wildfire, fueled by strong Santa Ana winds and dry conditions, destroyed approximately 40% of the school’s facilities, including 21 classrooms and several administrative buildings . The fire, which burned over 23,000 acres and destroyed more than 6,800 structures, was one of the most destructive in California’s history .
In the aftermath, PCHS swiftly transitioned to remote learning while seeking a temporary location for in-person classes. By April, the school had relocated to a repurposed Sears building in Santa Monica, dubbed “Pali South,” which was renovated with the help of donors and volunteers to accommodate students .
The graduation ceremony served as a testament to the community’s resilience and the students’ determination to overcome adversity. Student body president Alex Ramirez reflected on the journey, stating, “This year tested us in ways we never imagined, but it also brought us closer together. Today, we celebrate not just our academic achievements, but our collective strength.”
The Hollywood Bowl, renowned for its cultural significance and history, provided a fitting backdrop for the ceremony. The venue, which has hosted legendary performances and events, symbolized a sense of continuity and hope for the graduating class.
Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) has announced a $604 million plan to rebuild PCHS, along with Marquez Charter Elementary and Palisades Charter Elementary, by the end of 2028. The funding, sourced from a $9 billion bond approved by voters in November, aims to restore the damaged schools and enhance their resilience against future natural disasters .
As the Class of 2025 embarks on the next chapter of their lives, the graduation ceremony at the Hollywood Bowl stands as a powerful reminder of their journey and the unwavering support of their community. In the words of Principal Magee, “This is not just an ending, but a new beginning forged through courage, unity, and hope.”