SOUTH HADLEY — While South Hadley High School seniors won’t be able to walk across the stage in June to receive their diplomas, school officials are finding creative ways to showcase graduates in the community.
Along Newton Street, a new display features signs honoring each of the 140 students in the Class of 2020. Every sign displays a photo of one of the individual graduates, while a fence behind the display features a “We love our seniors” message.
Previously, school officials had placed signs on graduates’ lawns congratulating them on their accomplishment. But interim Principal Elizabeth Wood and Jennifer Quinn, a teacher and senior class adviser, wanted to take the effort a step further.
“South Hadley is a town that’s riddled with lots of traditions,” Wood said, “and one of the traditions is making sure that each individual gets recognized.”
With graduation currently postponed to August 7 — whether it is a virtual or in-person ceremony — Wood said the display felt like “the next best step” in showing students they are appreciated.
