As high school seniors across the country trade their caps and gowns for masks and gloves, graduation will not continue in the normal fashion. Students will not sit in alphabetical order to hear their names called along with their families’ applause. No diploma will be handed out in front of thousands, there will certainly be no handshake, and parties will not be hosted by proud parents. However, this doesn’t mean that there will be no festivities.

           On Saturday, May 16, CNN aired a virtual graduation for seniors across the United States. This two-hour event included celebrities ranging from LeBron James and Gal Gadot to former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton. This event was to congratulate seniors and to remind them that this loss does not define who they are. As Malala Yousafzai states, “The class of 2020 won’t be defined by what we lost to this virus but by how we responded to it.” 

         Families and schools are doing all they can to honor the class of 2020 during this difficult time. Signs indicating that students are graduating are popping up across the country, stating the name of the school and possibly a congratulatory message. Drive-by celebrations are being posted on social media, in which cars will drive past the houses of the graduate to commend them on their accomplishment. 

Retailers across the country are also recognizing the struggles of seniors this year, offering them discounts and specialty products.

       As all schools continue to adapt, plans for the class of 2020 are still a concern. As Fairfax County Public Schools continues to adjust its plans, questions of how a ceremony will proceed to arise. With talk of virtual ceremonies or an in-person ceremony in the fall, the class of 2020 will be recognized in some way. However, safety is of the utmost importance. The county will do all it can to celebrate seniors, within health and safety regulations laid out by Governor Northam. Congratulations to the class of 2020, and remember to stay safe!