Seniors attend modified in-person graduation, reflect on year cut short

It’s an unforgettable milestone--at an unforgettable time.

But for the class of 2020, their memorable senior year and all the milestones it could have brought--like prom and graduation--were cut short.

Before social distancing ended their normal senior year unexpectedly, students had been imagining walking in a cap and gown in front of friends, family and peers.

They came one-by-one in cap, gown and mask.

“Seeing the school again, it’s like you reminisce on all the memories you had here," said Michael Barris, a senior at Knightdale High School.

Some students, like Larissa Weiner-Nichols, expressed bittersweet nostalgia, saying they had no idea when they left for Spring Break it would be their last day of high school--ever.

Knightdale High School celebrates Class of 2020 with staggered ceremonies

Kharisma Wilson walks across the stage, her family's cheers filling the void left by empty chairs where friends and teachers should be celebrating, too.

The Principal calls her name.

Wilson walks across the finish line--a triumphant senior milestone during a time that's taken so much away from the class of 2020.

“It’s an amazing feeling that I can’t explain," she said. "It was an intimate experience, and it was with the people who mattered the most.”

Among all the proud parents is a proud principal, who says the coronavirus has taught a valuable life lesson.

“I think they really have to be prepared to adjust; anything can happen and we never know what is going to be thrown our way," said Keith Richardson, Knightdale High School principal.

“I feel great. I feel good," said Destiny Chesson, a senior.

“It’s a big step for my next journey which will be pursuing the military," said Sadiq Anderson.

"I want to be a doctor," said another senior.

With big dreams, the Class of 2020 knows the sky is the limit.