Local Hoosiers show support for graduates

Abby Doriot | Staff writer

In response to all of the things that the class of 2020 is missing out on, the Adopt-aSenior program was created. This program is for seniors, not just in Scottsburg, but everywhere to feel appreciated and acknowledged.

“This is special to me because I feel like someone cares. They acknowledge what the seniors are going through and give them something to smile about,” Alyssa Stagnolia (12) said.

The program allows families to “adopt” a high school senior. When they “adopt” the senior, they can send them gifts, which makes the senior feel cared for and appreciated.

“I think it makes the seniors feel special to be adopted because it lets them know they are appreciated for their accomplishments. Plus, it also says that someone other than their family acknowledges all the hard work they’ve put in through the years,” said Danili Bramble, who is part of the program.

Bramble adopted a senior because she also has a senior, and she knows how hard this time is for them.

“The seniors have missed out on so much this year, so who couldn’t use a little pick me up? They’ve missed out on a lot of key milestones for their last year of school, so anything that makes this time special is exactly what they deserve,” Bramble said.

Stagnolia’s adopted family, the Richey family, has made her day by just sending simple gifts, such as flowers, to show they care. Stagnolia thinks that this is a great idea for the seniors this year because it puts a smile on their faces and acknowledges what they are going through.

While some students are being adopted by people they know, some seniors do not know their adopters. Macy Funk, for example, was adopted by someone she does not even know.

“My adopted parent is Derre’ka Jones. I have no idea who she is, but I thought it was so amazing of her to want to help someone she doesn’t even know during this time,” Funk said.

She thought that this program really shows how many good people there are in southern Indiana. She especially loved how all of these people are finding ways to celebrate the seniors.

“I think this is an amazing idea, especial- Abby Doriot Staff Writer ly this year, because of everything that has been thrown off track. I hope that even after all of this is over that this group continues to do this for all of the seniors to come,” Funk said.

While all eyes are on the seniors themselves, no one really notices the tears falling down the parents’ and guardians’ eyes.