Parents, school and community drew together for the graduation of the Northwestern Lehigh Class of 2020 and to acknowledge their achievements in a unique and celebratory way.

The largely outdoor event began at the high school where seniors could grab their diplomas before going to Ontelaunee Park, where a gold and black balloon arch festooned the entrance and placards recognizing each graduate lined the walkway.

Two weeks before, it was a three-person team that took the first step leading to the final event. High School Principal Aileen Yadush, Vice Principal Don Allen and Director of Athletics and Student Activities Jason Zimmerman took to the road, to deliver graduation caps and gowns and the 2020 yearbook to every senior.

The trek began at 8 a.m. and 12 hours later, their work was done.

“The seniors were all smiles, as were their parents,” Zimmerman said. “From a distance we interacted. Everyone was great, respecting each other and following proper social distancing.

“Aileen and Don wore masks as they were the ones who handed the caps, gowns and yearbooks to the kids.

“Even most of the students and parents had masks on.”

Zimmerman said everyone was welcoming.

“Some even provided us with doughnuts, cookies and cold water,” Zimmerman said. “It was an awesome opportunity just to see our seniors one more time before graduation.”

A few weeks before graduation, families planned how to celebrate even as placards honoring graduates began to appear on lawns throughout the school district.

“My family and I are going to eventually have a party celebrating my graduation, when things start to return back to normal and it is safe for everyone to be together,” Gabriella Giese said. “We are, however, going to have a virtual pizza party via Zoom after graduation with my extended family.”

“My parents really feel for me, and are still trying to make the closing of my senior year as special as possible because it is special,” Sydney Sevrain said. “My mom is really trying to make things as normal as possible, involving the family while following guidelines and making me feel important.

“She made graduation announcements to send and we took some photos in my cap and gown.

“We are going to try and do a little family gathering to celebrate, and she still wants me to keep my prom dress and not return it.”

Steph Dunbar, library assistant, discussed the graduation.

“Although graduation 2020 looked different, the feelings of joy and pride for our senior class remains the same,” said Dunbar. “We are so proud of our graduating class and wish them success on the next phase of their life’s journey.”

“This senior class is full of class all around, from vocational to AP students,” said Patricia Mengel, health and physical education teacher. “I have no doubt they will be another success story.”

“From the moment most of you entered my classroom in ninth and 10th grade, I knew you would always hold a special place in my heart,” Heather Fugazzotto said. “You are and will always be ‘my kids’ and I am so proud of you.

“Now go show the world what I already know about you. You got this.”

“No one could have predicted this pandemic or the subsequent restrictions and we are just very fortunate to live in a community that simply takes tough situations, sticks together, and makes the best out of those situations,” Zimmerman said.