By Ari Boldur and Olivia Wong
The class of 2020 didn't have a regular yearbook distribution day, but New Hyde Park Memorial planned a special day just for them. The day included a drive-by through the school parking lot that lasted two hours long to ensure social distancing.
The loop around the parking lot allowed the seniors to receive their yearbook, accept fries from the Shack, and take a picture with NHP's gladiator mascot. Many decorated their cars with liquid chalk, streamers, and balloons to show their school spirit at a safe distance. This was also one of the last times the graduating class got to say goodbye to their teachers.
Below are some quotes from teachers and seniors as well as a collection of pictures from the eventful day.
“The seniors have accomplished so much despite everything. I hope they can really see how much we support them and how far they have come,” said social studies teacher Ms. Burkhard.
“I was so happy to see you all. Best of luck on this new chapter, and don’t forget to make every second count!” said Spanish teacher Ms. Salcedo.
“Even though the seniors couldn't get their yearbooks in the traditional way, today's car parade and yearbook pick-up demonstrated how both students and staff alike feel as if they belong to a family at New Hyde Park Memorial. The staff was excited to be there to cheer on their seniors and let them know we are still here for them and want to celebrate all of their accomplishments,” said guidance counselor Ms. Laudenslager.
“Congratulations! Best of luck in everything you do in the future, and look forward to new beginnings and good times. You will be missed. Come back and visit,” said science teacher Ms. Stone.
"It was really a bittersweet afternoon because of how happy I was to get my yearbook and see teachers, but it was sad because it’s not how we all thought our yearbook distribution would be. I really enjoyed the parade and loved what the school put together for us even though the pandemic didn’t let us have a “normal” distribution. I’m very happy with how it turned out and was very happy to get my yearbook,” said senior Kelsey Price.
“During these tough times, it brightened my whole experience seeing the NHP family get together and make one of our last moments as seniors so special. Seeing every teacher and student that made my years so extraordinary made me realize that there’s still hope for a momentous end to senior year,” said senior Aliana Victor.
“After the past few months, the yearbook distribution parade was a really nice thing for the school to organize for us. Seeing so many of my friends and teachers again made me somewhat emotional as I’m really realizing now that it’s the end of my senior year. Even though the circumstances aren’t ideal, I really enjoyed the experience and I’m glad we were able to do this,” said senior Adam Romanelli.