Despite COVID-19, the town of Rockland came together to support graduates from the high school class of 2020.
About a hundred seniors decorated their vehicles and went on a parade through town.
Lizzie McGaffigan says it’s a tight-knight community, and she’s hopeful it’s the start of a new tradition.
“I’m really excited to be able to do something for graduation. Obviously since we weren’t able to it,” said McGaffigan. “I feel really grateful that all the teachers and everyone in the town worked together to do something nice for us.”
McGaffigan plans on attending UMass-Amherst.
Rockland's Class of 2020 got together for a rolling rally. Seniors are hoping this is the start of an annual tradition. @959watdfm @RocklandTown pic.twitter.com/Exdtmax3o2
— Lenny Rowe (@LennyRoweWATD) May 27, 2020
It was a way to maintain social distance, but bring the community together. Residents and teachers lined the streets, held signs, and cheered the class on.
Perched on a decorated van in the high school parking lot, Philip Pattison couldn’t believe the turnout.
“It’s a little surreal seeing everybody again and realizing how crazy our class is, and missing it so much more,” laughed Pattison. “I was close to not doing this, but I’m very glad that I did, because I get to see all of my friends.”
Pattison plans on attending a two-year program at Massasoit Community College before transferring to Bridgewater State University for a criminal justice major.
Jad Bendarkawi had his car decorated with balloons and signs. He worked with his sister and dad to put it all together.
“I’m really proud of Rockland for being able to make these sorts of adjustments,” said Bendarkawi. “I know a couple of other towns are cancelling graduations and gatherings like this. I’m super excited that I get to do something like this.”
He plans on studying electrical engineering at Princeton.
Alyssa Patten and Kyley Houde rode in a Jeep decorated with streamers and balloons.
“Our year was so messed up with corona. I think it’s an amazing thing that they’re doing for our class,” said Patten. “We haven’t been able to have many of our senior events.”
“It’s crazy. We never would have thought we would miss out on senior prank, senior assassin,” said Houde. “The school is really making an effort to make sure that we get something special out of it.”
Houde plans on studying business at Suffolk University, and Patten plans on attending the John Jay College of Criminal Justice.
Parents organized an adopt a senior program through Facebook, and gifts were given to each member of the Class of 2020.
Lizzie McGaffigan said she lost some balloons on the drive over. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
The parade passed by Town Hall, staff made signs for the seniors. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
Jad Bendarkawi says he worked with his sister and dad to put this all together. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
Joseph Breadmore and Mia Comeau say this was a great way to bring everyone together. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
A senior waves from Taunton Ave. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
Alyssa Patten (far right) and Kyley Houde (left) wave from Union Street. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
Residents and teachers lined Taunton Ave with signs and cheered for the seniors. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
