Graduation looked different this year.
Instead of rows of graduating seniors and bleachers filled with proud friends and family, this year's celebrations were viewed through a computer screen and from the family car. Ceremonies were held during a time of uncertainty, isolation, and hardship the likes of which many in our community had never faced before.
And yet, though the COVID-19 Pandemic dramatically transformed the method of our celebrations, it did not prevent parents, families, teachers, staff, and administrators from coming together (virtually and socially distanced, of course) to honor the achievements of our students and salute the exciting times that lie ahead.
“Don't focus on what we lost," said Hanson Hong Vuong, Valedictorian for Patriot High School, adding, “focus on what we can win. On a future we can make better."
Each of the four Virtual Graduations featured heartwarming messages from staff and graduating students; footage of our schools; and photos highlighting the senior class before and after the official commencement ceremony. Drive-Thru Graduations followed, giving graduates the opportunity to take photos in their caps and gowns as families, friends, and JUSD Staff cheered them on.
Like Graduation, the future looks different than expected, but Jurupa Unified students learn without limits. The Class of 2020 is more than ready to face whatever comes next.
“We can take this challenge and let it destroy our dreams, or we can take it as an opportunity. An opportunity to better ourselves and to look forward to what is to come," said Ariana Lemus, Salutatorian for Jurupa Valley High School, adding, “Because a life without challenges brings no change."
Below are the recordings of our Virtual Graduations and videos of the Drive-Thru Graduations.
Jurupa Valley High School
Rubidoux High School
Nueva Vista High School & Jurupa Adult School
Summer Drive-Thru Graduation