Class of 2020 Graduates Crossroads

 

Crossroads School’s Class of 2020 celebrated their high school graduation on Thursday, May 28 with a lively and moving virtual tassel-moving ceremony. If it is safe to do so, Crossroads plans to hold an in-person Commencement Ceremony in July.

 

“Our seniors have shown a lot of tenacity over the last few months,” says Head of Upper School Roxanne Zazzaro. “They are ending the year strong and in good spirits. This virtual ceremony allows us to honor their time in high school, give a toast and sing their praises as they deserve.”

 

The special day began with a surprise for students and their families: a video featuring photos of each of the 129 graduating seniors and well-wishes from dozens of Crossroads faculty, staff and alumni. Throughout the late morning and afternoon, members of the Crossroads community delivered grad bags to the home of each senior, containing diplomas, caps and gowns, yard/window signs and other mementos.

 

At 4:30 p.m., the School held a Zoom call for seniors and their families—from as near as Santa Monica and as far as Korea—for the traditional moving of the tassel. Roxanne and several teachers spoke poignantly about the resilience of the Class of 2020. Senior class presidents Kai McAliley and Sophie Himmel reminisced about the unique experiences of the class over the years.

 

Head of School Bob Riddle gave a sparkling-cider toast, wishing for seniors that “every risk you took, every barrier broken, every relationship cultivated will continue to serve you well on your life’s journey.”

 

Shares Kai, “The tassel ceremony [provided] some much needed closure for all of us. Sophie and I are so thankful for everything that Crossroads has done for us, and I’m so grateful to be able to be a part of this ceremony. Even if it’s not exactly what we wanted, it’s what we all need right now.”