Concord High School holds senior walk for virtual graduation

ELKHART, Ind.--- Concord High School held a senior walk for its virtual graduation ceremony on Monday. The class of 2020 was able to get diplomas and have its picture taken on stage for an official ceremony to be held in June.

The class of 2020 has had to cancel proms, spring break trips, and in person graduation ceremonies because of the pandemic.

"It’s said that we haven’t been able to have a regular normal graduation," said Destiny Simpson, a graduating senior. "I’ve actually cried a few times because I haven’t had one."

Officials at Concord High decided  to have the senior walk to give the class of 2020 something that would resemble an in person graduation in the time of social distancing. Each senior got to have his or her name called, receive their diploma, and have a professional picture taken on stage while their families recorded the event on their phones.

"The virtual ceremony allows every student to participate and it guarantees that everyone’s because they’re here and then they can be with the family for a celebration," said Renee Cocanower, the Director of Secondary Education for Concord Schools. 

Simpson says she's grateful to have a lifelong dream realized, even though it happened in an unconventional way. 

"I felt accomplished," said Simpson. "I’m kind of sad I couldn’t do it in front of everybody but it’s okay."

The videos shot by the families will be compiled together for the school's virtual graduation ceremony happening in June.