What a year to remember! An unprecedented time that reshaped not only all of us, but to our graduates of all levels – The Class of 2020!

As for my son…..

Senior Proms, Weekend Down the Shore,  Senior Prank Day, Last Day of School, Project Graduation…all Cancelled! ?

Covid-19 continues to impact us. My youngest son, Jake Spitaletta will have a virtual graduation but we are still hoping for the tradition of an in-person ceremony. It’s tough for him not to experience everything that his 3 older brothers have. Being the youngest and my last to graduate High School, I sure had plans of doing things – more celebratory activities as we approach the end of the school year.

It has left me conflicted on arrangements for party gatherings and even travel and hotel bookings for when we move him to College of Charleston in South Carolina. 

I would like to give a shout out to all the parents who have come up with ways to celebrate our children.  Adopt- a-Senior program on Facebook, was created and it gave opportunity for other parents to adopt a Senior and drop off something special at their homes — to make the child feel celebrated and thought of! 

Another project were banners with photos of our children hung in all parts of our town. Decision Day was made special by the school and Guidance Counselors. They came by with decorated cars, cookies, yard signs with their pictures and school logos, and a lot of fun Knick Knacks to add to the celebration! 

It is refreshing to see the overflowing of attention our Seniors are getting. It is valuable to them and will definitely be remembered. Summer is here and before you know it, these kids in different towns will part ways moving on to the next chapter of their lives. 

As for my son Jake, Covid-19 may have ruined the imagination of what he and his friends thought they would have- but the realization of putting things into perspective made our young growing kids learn how life can change in an instant. There is definitely more appreciation and the honest conversation about this amongst themselves. 

We have a lot to be thankful for! For now, Congratulations to the Class of 2020… follow your dreams and no matter what life’s circumstances bring you, know that if you have surpassed the months of being locked down – You Are Strong! You Are Resilient! You have already proven yourselves to be survivors, flexible, adaptable, and successful!