Good afternoon students, parents, family members, staff, and dignitaries. I’m honored to be joining you all today in celebrating our graduating class of 2020. This is a very special celebration and recognition given what our students and families have endured and the challenges that they have been faced with over the past four months. Challenges that no class before them could even dream of. Challenges that stole precious moments and what was supposed to be very memorable activities with friends. Challenges that brought heartache and pain to many of you and your families. COVID-19 brought a changed world for us all, and a great impact to your senior year. It took away the plans that you had, but it did not take away your spirit, your determination, and your ability to collectively come together and find ways to celebrate your successes and your educational journey.

As the Superintendent of Schools, I’m proud of many things across this great district. I’m proud of our school leadership and staff within all of our buildings. I’m proud of the facilities and great opportunities we can provide to students here in East Lyme. I’m proud of the support that our families provide and how they collaborate with our staff to develop and cultivate a well-rounded student. But what I’m most proud of at this moment in time, is the perseverance and strength that this graduating class has demonstrated through this remarkably challenging period of our lives. The Class of 2020 will always be remembered for what they endured and how they overcame the most unique school year in the history of East Lyme!

I’d like to thank our administration and staff here at the high school for their ongoing commitment, dedication, and hard work in providing an outstanding education to all of our students. We have an amazing group of educators who fill our classrooms! I’d also like to thank our parents, guardians, and all family members who have been present over the years supporting these wonderful individuals walking across this stage and earning a diploma. Your dedication, commitment to your children, and collaboration with the high school is appreciated and will never be forgotten. You have helped us in pushing our children to strive for greatness in all facets of life. Our partnership in this educational journey has remained of such importance, and we thank you all for walking side by side with us over these past years.

Seniors, I want to congratulate you all on a job well done in the most difficult of times! Be proud of your effort, be proud of what you stand for, and always remain proud of being an East Lyme Viking! Thank you.

(Jeffrey Newton is the Superintendent of Schools in East Lyme.)