By L. Parsons Winslow High School spent all day last Wednesday honoring its graduating seniors. Beginning with photo opportunities in the Route 66 Plaza, which was full of signs displaying their names, and ending with a stadium light send off, the Class of 2020 celebrated in unprecedented ways. Also included in the festivities were pre-recorded messages from school board members, teachers and principals and students. Co-valedictorians Chloe Jarrin and Brooke Williams offered their classmates messages of hope for the future and salutatorian Skyler Sauceda said, “As a class, we have had to sacrifice so much, but through this rocky patch, we have had supporters who care and understand.” These videos aired on the Winslow High School Facebook page and can still be viewed. The Winslow Unified School District also put together a slide show of graduates that is still running on the Facebook page as well. The highlight of the day was a parade of graduating seniors. The Class of 2020 was well represented as many students took part in decorating their vehicles and making their way through town. Members of the community lined the streets to wish the graduates well and to offer their congratulations from afar. Stephanie Lugo’s son, Max was among the graduates this year. She said, “At first I was not happy at all. I was sad and angry that these students weren’t going to get to walk for their diplomas. However, I saw how excited and happy Max was, I think it should be added to our annual graduation. Max was thrilled to see all the people.” Students drove through town with their vehicles wearing masks, covered in balloons and names, and honking as they were cheered on.
