The 2019-20 school year was presented with its share of obstacles. For many, it was the school year that ended to soon but could not end quickly enough. The impact of a global pandemic was felt by all stakeholders, from educators to parents, and most certainly, students. Yet, we should not celebrate any less the accomplishments of the graduating class of 2020. For them, the journey through education has not been without prior challenges.
To The Graduating Class of 2020,
As the first generation of this millennium, you undoubtedly offer us all a bright future. Your perseverance and spirit erase any fears of what tomorrow may bring and instead provide the promise of the best days yet to come. Your journey thus far has demonstrated that regardless of what may come your way, you are determined to push forward and brighten our future.
While other generations have defined the past, it is your generation that will determine the remainder of this century and the ones that follow. We witnessed the obstacles you have already had to overcome. You were born into the post-9/11 world and have become adults amid a worldwide pandemic and exceptional social divide. The years in between have certainly had their share of challenge and reward.
Having already faced individual and collective difficulties different than those before you have had to overcome, your vision of the future has been and must remain 20/20. For those who may doubt you along the way, remember that it was your generation that first navigated the stressors of the digital age, that overcame the growth of politics in education, and graduated from an inconsistent and often under-funded system. When confronted with these obstacles, instead of shrinking to them, it was you who overcame them.
We look forward to witnessing your abilities and the endless possibilities they bring. The world is what you make it, so strive to make it better than those before you knew it could be.
And when the time comes, as it will, for the next generation to share their struggles with you, despite how big or small they may appear, listen to learn and reassure them that we are in this together.
Sincerely,
Christopher Paolillo
Christopher Paolillo 