By: Patrice Kopas
From bright smiles on the first day, to confused faces on March 12, we are facing the strange end to this unimaginable year. We grieve for the time we lost together. And yet we hold onto hope for the days ahead.
Recently, someone asked me if I could describe this year’s Greenwich Catholic School graduating class in one word.
Our graduates? They completed hundreds of hours of service work, represented GCS in multiple State Science Fairs, were inducted into Foreign Language and National Junior Honor Societies, competed on our athletic teams, shared their talents in the Spring Musicals, served as Student Ambassadors, sang in our Praise & Worship ensemble, acted as role models to their “little buddies,” and will continue their education at some of the best high schools in the country.
So can I describe this class in one word? Unequivocally, no.
One word would never be enough to honor the members of this class, and I’m sure educators across the country share my sentiment when thinking about their respective Class of 2020.
How do we honor these graduates? As they head into an uncertain future that changes before their eyes, it’s important to remember the lessons they learned along the way. These lessons will define them as they move to the next phase of their academic careers.
Students now have a more global perspective. As they watched news of the pandemic unfold, they did not slow down. They adjusted quickly to the change from learning at school to being at home. They asked how they could help, and quickly did their part by creating cards for first responders, donating to the food bank and learning how to lean on one other, even from a distance.
Today’s world is preparing students for the road ahead. Many are more curious, adaptable and creative than they may have thought. They question decisions, search for the truth, realize what is important, and learn empathy by thinking of others while responsibly protecting themselves.
Their family bonds are stronger than ever – with family dinners together most nights, they feel connected and loved. Each day still surrounded by the unexpected, but with a break from their “overscheduled schedule,” they are finding comfort in simple moments at home.
Are there roadblocks? Of course. No life is perfect. But the way roadblocks are handled defines the person. Making the right choice as the challenges continue makes the roadblocks less frequent and less ominous. The graduating class is strong enough to handle what life throws their way, and the foundation formed during their years at GCS has prepared them to thrive and navigate their way forward.
I am reminded of my own graduation, when my generation was confident that we could change the world. Although it looks different today, the sentiment remains the same. Graduates should believe and never lose sight that they can change the world. It is quite possible they could become the next “Greatest Generation” due to their life experiences.
I already know that the GCS Class of 2020 has forever changed my world.
Congratulations to all graduates in the Class of 2020. Your future awaits!
