Garden Spot Plans Commencement Exercises
A letter to parents and guardians of members of the Garden Spot High School (GSHS) Class of 2020, dated April 29, acknowledged the challenges of the school year, which ended in March under COVID-19 restrictions. The letter, which was written by Dr. Matt Sanger, secondary campus principal for grades seven to 12, also expressed hope, pointing out the "unique opportunities" presented to members of the class.
Sanger's letter said that, working with a team of staff members and utilizing student input, the ELANCO School District had devised a plan that would both honor and celebrate the GSHS Class of 2020. "We think it's important, as a rite of passage, to allow our students to experience that walk across the stage and receive their diplomas," said Sanger. "That's very important. We are trying to give (students and families) a commencement ceremony that is as traditional and normal as possible."
In accordance with the plan, Class of 2020 members and their families came to the school by appointment during the week of May 11. Each student walked across the stage as his or her name was called to pick up a diploma while being videotaped. Speeches by Dr. Bob Hollister, superintendent of ELANCO, and Sanger were recorded, as were speeches by Hannah Hostetler and Deanna Phillips, who were chosen to speak by a panel of GSHS staff members.
Hannah of Bowmansville is the daughter of Stacey and Mark McCreary and Justin and Valerie Hostetler. She has titled her speech "To Those Who Shaped Our Lives." In the speech, she gives credit to teachers, parents, and others who have influenced students, saying, "You didn't make it this far on your own. You've had 13 years' worth of people that have surrounded you and pushed you to this point." In the fall, Hannah plans to attend Rochester Institute of Technology, where she will major in biochemistry with a focus on molecular biology.
Deanna is the daughter of Todd and Rose Phillips of East Earl. The title of her speech is "What It Means to Embrace Who We Are." In her speech, Deanna will reference the uniqueness of the current year. "2020 is a year to remember, let it also be the year we chose to live out our truths. To dance like no one's watching. To unearth the genuine desires that lie within us," she wrote. In the fall, Deanna plans to attend college.
To conclude the ceremony, a member of the junior class will sing the benediction "The Lord Bless You and Keep You," in accordance with GSHS tradition.
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