PHOTOS: ‘Don’t Stop Me Now’ | SPHS Graduation 2021

 

On a day with proper early June weather and unshakable drive, South Pasadena High School’s Class of 2021 saw the light at the end of a claustrophobic — and largely isolated — tunnel.

‘Don’t Stop Me Now’, an energized, upbeat ballad performed originally by Queen, seemed a fitting theme for a graduating class that endured not one, but almost two years full of fluctuating fortune. Facing the uncertainties wrought at the onset of COVID-19 as juniors — the abrupt disconnect from friends and instructors; the subsequent mental health hurdles and, no doubt, lasting effects for many; the cancellation of the numerous in-person activities, sports, theatre, dances, and countless more — the seniors presented before their peers, family, and administration had certainly taken quite a few hits and nevertheless powered through it all.

For a class in which nearly half of their high school career was devoid of the usual fare, the opportunity to experience a somewhat traditional ceremony was a triumph in and of itself. Reflecting on this were representatives of the class of 2021, while also honoring outgoing Principal Janet Anderson, who will be retiring after 21 years at SPHS in August.

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“Today is that day that many of us had marked on calendars Freshman Year. This year and a half was unprecedented, we all missed out on many of our last high school moments,” said Macie Lukavsky, the Senior Class President. “Musical productions, dances, color day, powderpuff football game, and the list could go on and on. But what we have gained is priceless, we undoubtedly know that each of us has the strength, the stamina and the grit and the determination to not only survive, but thrive under unforeseen, enormous challenges.”

Full story to follow, stay tuned for updates