CVHS Plans Memorable Events
"The goal is to not just replicate the excitement of a traditional graduation, but truly celebrate each and every graduate of the Class of 2020," Conestoga Valley School District (CVSD) superintendent Dave Zuilkoski wrote to students, families, and friends of Conestoga Valley High School (CVHS) seniors in early May.
Zuilkoski went on to outline plans for events that would "try to maintain as many traditions as possible," while creating a memorable celebration for the Class of 2020. The district has kept the reservation of Calvary Church for Friday, May 29, but also prepared to present speeches and diplomas in ways that work within COVID-19 guidelines. The alternative plans include recorded speeches by principal Michael Thornton, Class of 2020 president Simonne Legette, Jamie Glick, Sophia Steed, CVSD school board president Todd Shertzer, and Zuilkoski. Jamie and Sophia auditioned for the graduation speakers committee and were chosen to speak. In addition, the presentation to the Rill Medal of Honor winners and the acknowledgement of the class valedictorian and salutatorian, top 10% of the class, and students entering the military will also be recorded.
Jamie is the daughter of Dean and Jeanie Glick of Lancaster. Jamie said that she is glad she attended CVHS because of the positive relationships she was able to develop there. "Not only (relationships) with my classmates, but with my teachers as well," said Jamie, who recalled that she was excited to go to school each morning knowing she would be welcomed with smiles and hellos from the teachers. "The teachers are always willing to help you in any way they can to make you successful," she noted. "I would not be the person I am today without their guidance." Her speech reads in part, "I have been a Buckskin my entire life, and I have been cheering you on through wins and losses. I'm here to cheer all of you on one last time." In the fall, Jamie plans to attend the Penn State Berks, Division of Undergraduates.
Sophia is the daughter of Jeff and Kathy Steed of Lancaster. Her time at CVHS has been enhanced by the connections she has made with others. "The school does a very good job at presenting students with plenty of opportunities to be involved and be successful," said Sophia, who listed sports, the drama department, and clubs among those opportunities. "I have made some incredibly impactful relationships with my fellow students, teachers, and mentors," she shared. "Each of the students I walked the halls with was an inspiration to me in different ways, and I will remember the relationships I made ... for the rest of my life." In her speech, Sophia will encourage her classmates to face the future without fear. "We have to stop being afraid of the unknown and start looking at it like an old friend," she advised. "If there is one group of people who knows what it's like to face and conquer the unknown, it's for sure the CV Class of 2020." In the fall, Sophia plans to attend the University of Georgia, where she will major in public relations.
Alternative graduation plans also call for students to receive diplomas during a vehicle procession throughout the campus. "This Buckskin Farewell will allow our faculty and staff to celebrate the seniors as they process to receive their diploma," Zuilkoski explained in the letter. Zuilkoski and Shertzer will be at a designated point on campus to hand out diplomas to students.
A Senior Slam event is also planned with a tentative date of Friday, July 24. The Slam, which will take place in the CVHS stadium and on the surrounding athletic fields,will include photo opportunities, food in a festival-style atmosphere, yard games, music, and a chance for the Class of 2020 to gather on the bleachers and watch the sunset together. Friends and families of students will be invited to attend the event.
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