Like virtually everything else that has taken place in America since March, the Goldsmith Early Childhood Center’s recent graduation ceremony and program looked a bit different from previous years. There were no white dresses, button-down shirts, processionals and hugs goodbye this year.
While the COVID-19 pandemic has caused the cancellations of countless milestone celebrations, the teachers and administration at Goldsmith weren’t going to let the virus prevent them from celebrating their preschool class of 2020.
And celebrate they did!
Each graduating class member lined up in decorated cars and drove around the carpool circle to the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” march song. Along the way, teachers of the preschool, rabbis from the Chizuk Amuno building, cafeteria staffers and administration members gathered outside to greet the students with decorated signs and balloons.
The preschool’s director, Michelle Gold, spoke to the graduates, commending them on their perseverance during such a challenging time, and safely handed out their diplomas.
Parents teared up as kids cheered on their fellow classmates with their heads poking out of sunroofs.
“Michelle Gold and all of her staff put so much thought and love into this special graduation parade,” said Stacey Thompson, co-president of Goldsmith’s parents’ association group with Kelly Blavatt. “We feel so lucky to have been a part of this incredible school and community. While graduation looked very different this year, the love and Jewish values and community were stronger than ever.”
Photos courtesy of the Goldsmith Early Childhood Center
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