On the fateful night of Sep. 13, the Homecoming court waited in anticipation for the reveal of the king and queen. The moment they were given the boxes that held the answers is when the tension began to rise. And for the moment they were waiting for, they learned that this year’s Homecoming King and Queen are…Gustavo Nungaray and Megan Parker! 

Parker and Nungaray were both surprised and ecstatic to learn that they were chosen to be this year’s king and queen, and the candidates were just as excited for them. 

Parker exclaimed, “I was so shocked [and] speechless the whole night. I was like, ‘No way this is real.’”

Parker has been a devoted sideline cheerleader for Ripon High for all four years of her high school career and she’s the head backspot for her senior year. Prior to high school, she was a cheerleader for the Ripon Knights starting at the age of eight. During her free time outside of school and cheerleading, she enjoys hanging out with friends. 

On the other hand, Nungaray has been a devoted football player and a valuable team member of track and field for Ripon High for all four years of his high school career. During the track and field season, he participates in discus and shot put events. In his free time when he’s not busy with school, tackling football players, and training for his events, he enjoys being with friends and relaxing. 

This is their last year of high school and they’re just as sad as any other senior would be.

Nungaray said, “I’m going to be sad when we leave, but it has to happen and I’m excited that I got to be the Homecoming King. It’s a good way to end my high school career.”

Similarly, Parker explained, “I’m sad to leave the people that I’ve known for so long, especially the people I went to elementary school with.”

On the bright side, they’re excited to go to college and continue their education. Parker wants to go to Fresno State and major in veterinary science to eventually become a veterinarian and potentially open her own clinic. Nungaray plans on going to Modesto Junior College to figure out what he would like his major and career goal to be.

Lastly, Nungaray and Parker had great advice to share with the underclassmen as seniors. Nungaray strongly encourages everyone to get involved with your school and community. Parker advocates to be kind to everyone because you don’t know what someone could be going through. 

Congratulations to this year’s Homecoming King and Queen and let’s wish them on their future endeavors!