This wasn’t the graduation you were planning for, but the Class of 2020 will be one to go in the record books.
For generations of Powell River high school students, graduation has been full of pomp and ceremony. It’s been said that the Brooks Secondary School grad weekend is unlike any other, steeped in tradition, and highlighted by the grand march.
This year is different because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but that doesn’t mean the whole city isn’t celebrating your achievements. In fact, your success is made more impressive because most of your final semester was done virtually, which makes your graduation more notable than any other.
On behalf of city council and the citizens of Powell River, I want to extend our congratulations to the Class of 2020 for your determination and accomplishments in the new normal.
You may not know what the future holds, none of us do, but you are well prepared to tackle whatever comes your way.
You can say you were the Class of COVID 2020. You met and succeeded in unprecedented times and no one can ever take that away.
Celebrate your teachers, who guided you through your schooling.
Be proud, as Powell River is proud of you.
Be full of optimism. The world is waiting for you.
Be grateful for what Powell River has instilled in you.
Be appreciative of your parents, who got you to this point in your life with sacrifice and caring.
Now it’s time to celebrate with your classmates in a safe way. One day, you’ll reunite and remember the challenges you overcame as the Class of 2020.
David J. Formosa, mayor
City of Powell River
