LYNN — Despite the coronavirus pandemic, the KIPP Academy Lynn Collegiate Class of 2020 will still be celebrated by the entire school community, both virtually and in-person with social-distancing measures.
The class consists of 109 graduates, which represents 100 percent of the students who began the school year at KIPP.
Many colleges have extended their deposit date from May 1 to June 1 because of the pandemic, but the KIPP college counseling team estimates that 83 percent of the Class will enroll in four-year schools, 12 percent in two-year schools, and five percent are pursuing other post-secondary options.
“The class of 2020, like all classes, is a group of extraordinary young people full of purpose and passion,” Executive Director Caleb Dolan said. “Unlike all our other classes, this class has had to progress towards their future amidst a pandemic.
“This pandemic illuminates how deeply these young people are committed to each other, their community, and of building a better tomorrow,” he said. “I am personally grateful to these young people, their families, and their teachers; their navigation of an almost impossible time provides hope for all of us.”
The celebration began Tuesday with the senior award presentation, which was pre-recorded and aired live on Zoom. All senior families were able to celebrate the awards with three meals from Estefani’s Restaurant in Lynn, which were delivered by their teachers. The restaurant is owned by a KIPP alumna.
Wednesday, members of the class will come to KIPP with their families in shifts to pick up their diplomas. They will drive under a balloon arch, get their diploma, and be able to take a photo.
Thursday, students will come together for a Zoom graduation ceremony, with speeches from Valedictorian Herman Keysha, Salutatorian Chanpichany Ros, and Class Speaker Jonathan Caraballo.
“Although we are not having a traditional graduation ceremony, it is clear that KIPP is doing everything that they can to make sure that we’re supported and that we feel like a team and family during this time,” senior Brian Leon said.
