It's not a traditional graduation ceremony but it means just as much to the graduates and their loved ones as the Appomattox County High School Class of 2020 received their diplomas today (and will continue Thursday) in the school's auditorium.

Students and their families arrive at a scheduled time and entered the auditorium one group at a time due to social distance regulations set forth by government officials amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Valedictorian Annabelle Paulette and Salutatorians Shaniya Johnson and Leah Caldwell gave speeches in front of their families in the auditorium. Their speeches, as well as those of Principal Poldi Moreno, Superintendent Annette Bennett and Commencement Speaker Wilsie Bishop, were recorded and will be included in a special graduation video that will be available to all graduates.

Despite the change in ritual, the graduates and families appeared to enjoy the day. Officials at ACHS have worked tirelessly to make this year's ceremony as memorable as possible in the face of difficult circumstances.

Find out more in the upcoming issue of the Times Virginian newspaper. Pick up a copy or subscribe at www.timesvirginian.com/subscriber_services to view the full article in the e-edition version.

Tags