By Al Benson
Michael Castellanos, on Almond Drive in Aurora, was among 950 West Aurora High School graduating seniors who were celebrated with at-home visits by staff members Friday, May 22. Castellanos said he plans to continue his education at Waubonsee Community College.
Staff members on 10 graduation express school buses delivered red or blue keeper caps, gowns, tassels and diploma covers to seniors’ doorsteps. Additionally, staff members brought blank white yard signs for seniors to decorate and return to the school for display on the school lawn facing Galena Boulevard, showcasing graduates to drivers passing by.
Seniors participated in a farewell drive-by vehicle parade from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday. While maintaining social distancing guidelines, seniors drove through the school campus, waved to staff members and dropped off decorated yard signs.
Graduation, scheduled for August 3 at Northern Illinois University, was canceled per the Regional Office of Education and the Kane County Health Department. Plans for a virtual graduation will be announced officials said.
According to Charles Hiscock, West High principal, “School District 129 stands with the Class of 2020 in their disappointment over losing the Excellence in Education banquet, prom, and an in-person commencement ceremony this week. West Aurora aims to celebrate our seniors as best we can given the parameters outlined by the Regional Office of Education and the Kane County Health Department.
“We understand that this is an incredibly difficult time for the Class of 2020 and their families. We all lament the lost opportunities to compete in Spring sports, to perform one more time on the stage, to attend those last club meetings and to celebrate with your peers, friends and families.
“With that said, we remain committed to finding creative ways to celebrate the remarkable class of 2020 within the current limitations for large group gatherings,” Hiscock said.