Graduations at Mercer High School -- a school serving the academic, therapeutic, and other special needs of students between 14 and 21 -- are usually quite emotional events. Students with special needs and their teachers develop very close relationships.
There’s a lot of primping and help with hairstyles and help getting into caps and gowns behind the scenes, and lots of hand-holding and hugs along the way before the students leave.
But sadly at this graduation there could be no hugs goodbye. The coronavirus lockdown stopped that.
Mercer High School graduate Luis Valencia waits in line in a car driven by his father, Pablo Morocho at Mercer County Special Services School District High School graduation. Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
Even so, once Governor Phil Murphy signed an executive order allowing outdoor graduations, a committee of seven staff members got together to create a way to provide an altered graduation ceremony that met the standards for social distancing, while acknowledging the students’ achievement.
What resulted was part parade, part graduation.
Graduates in cars with their families were guided through the school grounds, only stopping and getting out of their cars at three stations, one to receive their diploma, one to receive a gift bag, which included hand-written cards from staff, and the last, a family photo opportunity.
Mercer High School graduate Chris Upshur holds his diploma at Mercer County Special Services School District High School graduation.Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
Principal Brian Kozakowski handled the announcing role.
As each student’s vehicle approached, Kozakowski read remarks over the PA system prepared by their teachers that were individually tailored to each student.
Praising one students aptitude for Scrabble and the Rubik’s Cube, he said, “When put to the task, there isn’t anything Gabby can’t figure out.”
And to another, “Luis, you have grown so much this past year.
“Your attention to details and willingness to help classmates, especially in your vocational classes, has been so nice to see. You truly let your personality shine, and let those around you see your humorous side.”
Luis Valencia, left, receives a gift bag from social worker Ayala Rahimi at Mercer County Special Services School District High School graduation. Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
“We just have a great, dedicated staff that goes above and beyond, especially during the pandemic,” said school nurse Karen Burke, who started at the middle school and now teaches at the high school.
“The families certainly deserve to have a celebration after many have been in our district since they were three and are now 21. It’s really great that many of our staff have known these children and families for so many years.”
Mercer High School graduate Eddie Bowling poses for a family and friends photo. From left, Faith Bowling, mother, Breanna Federico, friend, (Eddie), Amber Bowling, sister and Jason Charyk, friend.Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
The unique event went off without a hitch.
“Although this is something new I think it was a proper send-off for the Class of 2020,” Kozakowski said.
“I feel like it went well! Not bad for the first one and hopefully the last,” Burke added.
Mercer High School Class of 2020 graduate Jaquan Harper smiles after receiving his diploma.Michael Mancuso | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
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Michael Mancuso may be reached at mmancuso@njadvancemedia.com.
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Special services school sends off grads with sweet, socially distant ceremony (PHOTOS) - NJ.com
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