Congrats,
Academy Kenneth Gay, III NC Central,Weaver Fall 2021, Jazz Studies
Congratulations, son! What an amazing 17 years it has been and how quickly they have passed! We’ve seen you grow over the years into a kind and talented young man. We knew from the beginning that God laid His hands on you and never let go. It is our sincere hope that you will stay connected to the source of your strength, you will seize each day, and will always savor the journey. Never forget where you came from or those who loved and helped you along the way. Work hard, stay humble, and your gift will make room for you. May God bless you with many years to come, filled with peace, joy, love, health, and success! Love, Mom & Dad
COVID challenges and takeaways compiled by ANNETTE JOYCE and PATTI STOKES The Class of 2021 endured a high school year unlike any other. For months, they had to deal with the ups and downs of virtual learning. Extracurricular activities were cancelled, postponed or held with restrictions. Football, wrestling and other sports were played much later in the year and many sports seasons were cut short and played with a limited number of fans. A few months before the school year ended, students were given the option of returning to the classroom on a limited basis. Some chose to finish their classes online while others were excited to get back to in-person instruction, if only for a short time. We asked Northwest and Northern Guilford graduates to share some of their biggest challenges and takeaways from their senior year, and here’s what they had to say...
CELEBRATES THE
CLASS OF 2021! LIF
14
JUNE 2021
E SAFETY
“The most difficult part of my senior year was not having face-to-face interaction with teachers and fellow students. I missed the conversations, laughter, and being able to say goodbye to all the teachers, guidance counselor, and friends who supported me throughout high school. “(During the past year) I learned of the resilience of the NWHS community. As students, we adjusted to virtual learning, sports with face masks, and fundraising while being socially distanced. Our teachers were supportive and persevered in spite of Microsoft Teams and internet connectivity issues, and the PTSO managed to still hold activities throughout the year to make the seniors feel special. “The biggest highlight (of this year) was being able to play field hockey
ONWARD and UPWARD
for NWHS. Being with my friends and playing games was the first time in a while that things felt normal.” Sydney Grigg, NWHS “The hardest part of this last year of school was not attending class in person, and not having anyone to hold me accountable for my work. The one thing I did learn was to hold myself accountable.” Lucie Zerfoss, Northern Guilford “The biggest struggle this last year was COVID-19, and contracting the virus. It really was a struggle, and I’ve had breathing problems ever since. It also threw me off mentally – but I’m getting better, and I’m graduating!” Jonah Yonaitis, Northern Guilford “The most difficult part of my senior year was trying to stay fully engaged in class. Basically, during class I was working my detailing business, The Polishing Crew. I would put in my AirPods, just listen, and then did my school work when I went home. “I learned from this past year not to rush to be an adult. Working all my years of high school, I realized that the people around you are only there for a limited time. “My biggest highlight of senior year was hanging with ‘my boys,’ who I’m proud to say are my best friends and will be my roommates at UNCCharlotte. We always have a good time and have done plenty of crazy things and I’m excited to continue the tradition.” Parker Hopkins, NWHS “Not going to school in person was definitely hard. Some people (like me) are more hands-on learners, and having to adjust and work on my own
