An Unexpected Turn for the Class of 2020

By Will Sohn
 
Wow. Last week, all Pennsylvania public schools closed for the remainder of the 2019-2020 school year. The abrupt ending for North seniors (including myself) was extremely disappointing for many of us. Spring sports and senior-specific events like prom, the senior trip to Disney World, and even the graduation ceremony itself have either been cancelled already or are under review. These once-in-a-lifetime events have existed for generations and make high school senior year very memorable. As we are unable to have traditional events and activities, this year seems like a bad dream for many of us.
 
However, the district leaders are working to launch their CR Celebrates the Class of 2020 plan. This alternative seeks to honor the seniors through virtual means including social media campaigns and distribution of commencement items and yearbook delivery. Administration is still trying to find ways to encourage seniors during these times.
 
Many teachers sympathize with our situation, but they know that we still have plenty to look forward to as we graduate and jump into the world.  Mr. Sherpinky, North BCIT teacher, spoke about our situation.
 
“You face a world very different from your parents’ and grandparents’. To be successful in the future, you must be able to think creatively, plan systematically, analyze critically, work collaboratively, communicate clearly, and most importantly learn continuously. While your parents and grandparents used many of the qualities to build our current world, you will require all of these qualities to build the future. Council Rock has given you the foundation for success. These qualities were built into every class you took at CR. It is your mission to find the right combination of these qualities to find your own personal success, happiness, and future. I know all of your teachers at Council Rock wish you and the Class of 2020 the very best.” 
 
Many other teachers sympathize with our disappointment and agree that we are prepared to graduate high school. Mrs. Hill encourages seniors to carry out the valuable lessons we learned here.
 
“Don't be afraid to make decisions and to try new things. The decisions you make are important, but don't be paralyzed by fear of making the wrong choice. Value people and relationships.”
  
Even without a normal ending to our high school career, we still have plenty of memories to reminisce upon. Whether it was the blue & white nights, the football games and stadium, the classes and teachers, or the building itself, Council Rock High School North will always be an amazing experience.
 
Even though the Class of 2020 will have different senior year memories from other North alumni, we all share memories about our beloved school and people we met here. This ending was a reminder to cherish what we have in the moment and prepare us for our futures. The Class of 2020 is set apart...perhaps it’s not as bad as we may think.

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