In my many years involved with education, I have never encountered the end of a school year that has been as challenging and difficult as this one, yet I can't remember one that was more rewarding or inspiring. Our Eighth-Grade celebrations were very different yet proved to be very special for all. Friday, 5 June was the last day of classes for the 8th grade students, however some graduation celebrations were to play out for them the following week.
Monday, 8 June several faculty and staff gathered at The De La Salle School to begin a journey to visit the home of each of the 2020 Graduates. Although all the parents knew of our visit, the students were not aware of our adventure in order to surprise them
upon our arrival. At each stop the graduate was presented with a lawn sign to display acknowledging that they were a graduate of The De La Salle School Class of 2020. They were also presented with their graduation cap and gown along with their graduation portraits and school photographs. It was a long day and a long drive through Nassau County but it was a most memorable and fun day. It was also the first opportunity to see the young men in person as opposed to a computer screen since Friday, 13 March. What joy it was to see the excitement and gratitude in the eyes of those young men as they dressed in their graduation regalia and posed for photographs.
The highlight of the week was Friday evening when the graduates and their families gathered in the parking lot of the school in order for their extended families as well as their De La Salle School family to participate in a Graduation Car Parade. Each graduate's family was assigned a spot in the parking lot allowing for safe spacing and a clear pathway for the cars to drive through and congratulate each member of the Class of 2020. It was not your typical graduation, but it was a celebration that symbolized the uniqueness of the class of 2020. Much like these young men, it was full of energy, enthusiasm, joy and laughter. Most importantly it was a celebration of life and love! If restrictions ease up, our hope is to celebrate the Class of 2020 with a more traditional graduation ceremony in August.
Good luck to the Class of 2020!
As these young men pursue their dreams at Kellenberg Memorial High School and Chaminade High School, your support will help them achieve those dreams. May their life's journey continue to be unique, filled with curiosity and hope. May they always be graced with the knowledge of God's presence and love.
