Celebrating the Class of 2020!

The 2019–20 school year has been like no other year in recent memory. For GCPS’ 12,700⁺ graduates— and their peers around the country and throughout the world— the rituals of senior year have been radically different in this time of COVID-19… cancelled proms and honors nights, virtual graduations and hopes of in-person events in July, online exams and no-contact drive-through “events” to gather belongings. While the global pandemic has reshaped their senior year, our students are poised to reshape their world. Despite the hardships and disappointments of these last months, the Class of 2020 displays resilience and determination as these graduates look toward their future and all that’s ahead.

This special issue of Communiqué is a tribute to the Class of 2020. To better reflect our seniors and their shared experience during these difficult times, we’ve asked graduates from across the district to share their unique perspective through creative expression. They responded with written and spoken-word reflections, vocal and instrumental performances, photography, and visual art pieces. Together, they put the spotlight on our seniors and their talents.

In addition, the issue includes just a few of the scholarships and awards garnered by members of the outstanding group of students that make up GCPS’ Class of 2020. (Just a list of names of our graduates would take more than 85 pages!) Of course, many more students earned prestigious honors and scholarships that are not part of this issue, and they are being honored in virtual celebrations in our school communities.

We congratulate our seniors for their many achievements and honors, and wish the very best for you all as you take on the next challenge. You’ve made us so proud and we know you’re just getting started!