By Crystal Hayduk
Despite the gradual lifting of restrictions on gatherings for Michigan’s Region 1, it wasn’t quite enough for Chelsea High School (CHS) to permit the in-person presentation of awards and scholarships to members of the Class of 2020.
Cue the Zoom Class Night.
On June 9, using a link that had been distributed in advance by CHS administration, families logged on to participate virtually in the traditional event.
While slides displayed the names and photos of individual students, Principal Mike Kapolka and Assistant Principal Dr. Luman Strong listed students’ contributions to CHS through activities and organizations, as well as their post-high school plans. Kapolka and Strong announced college scholarships; and awards in a variety of areas, including academic, musical, vocational, and athletic.
The traditional baby picture slide show, accompanied by sentimental graduation-themed songs, marked the halfway point of the evening.
Will Scott and Jaylen Watson were chosen by their peers as “The Most Representative Students in the Class of 2020” based on character, integrity, and achievements.
Kapolka thanked Shelley Weber, the counseling office secretary, for the tremendous amount of organizational work required for the evening.
A total of 317 awards and scholarships were given to 121 students. Kapolka addressed the scholarship sponsors: “On behalf of our seniors and the greater Bulldog community, your continued generosity makes this event possible.”
The Class of 2020 escorts, as voted on by the graduates, were announced. They are Laura Lutz – social studies department chair; Matt Pedlow – social studies teacher; Laura Naar – art teacher; Valerie Johnson – English teacher; Eric Swager – science teacher; and Martha Waldo – senior class advisor.
Following the event, Kapolka said in a written statement, “The Class of 2020 possesses a spirit of determination and resilience that makes us all extremely proud. They have consistently demonstrated their ability to remain positive in the face of uncertainty and have adapted quickly to the changes in their educational journey at CHS.”
Below is a list of the seniors and their awards and scholarships.
