‘Mighty in conviction,’ Shandon grads turn their tassels in a drive-through ceremony
Shandon High School saluted 19 graduating seniors on Friday, June 5, with a drive-through ceremony to maintain coronavirus social distancing restrictions.
Isaac Lopez was the Class of 2020 valedictorian, and Kayla Hurl was the salutatorian.
Most graduates will go on to attend community colleges — 14 seniors plan to enroll at Cuesta College, and one senior plans to enroll at Allan Hancock College.
One graduate will join the Marines, and one graduate plans to attend trade school.
The Class of 2020 received $42,250 in scholarships, which was awarded to nine students.
“The Shandon High School graduating Class of 2020 has been a special class to say the least,” said Kristina Benson, superintendent. “Extraordinary times have brought out just how accepting and tolerant these students are. They show great strength of character, and insight into world events.
“These 19 seniors, though small in number, are mighty in conviction,” Benson continued. “They do not look to complain, but rather they strive to be part of the solution. One teacher described them as ‘not being in it for themselves, but rather in it for their school and their community; always looking out for others. They are a group of students who are particularly open to sharing values, beliefs, feelings, and, more importantly, they are open to receive these from others as well. They have successfully completed high school, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for them as a class and as individuals. Good luck to the Shandon High School Class of 2020! Strive for excellence and keep your Outlaw spirit!”
This story was originally published June 7, 2020 at 5:00 AM.
