Courtney Luciana photo
Seventy-five Engineering and Science University Magnet School students walked the stage at Lighthouse Point Park to receive their diplomas in the last of six drive-by high school graduations held over two days.
Principal Medria Blue-Ellis took pride in how her school handled the coronavirus curveball, which led officials to schedule the outdoor, socially-distanced drive-by events.
“It was heartwarming to see our families and students overjoyed with the support that they had received from not only the school but also the district,” said Blue-Ellis. “We have had a couple of different festivities for them and they just felt so supported by our school staff and our PTO. We’ve made the best of a very difficult time.”
Blue-Ellis pointed out Reginald Alexis (at right in photo), the senior class advisor and French teacher, who won ESUMS teacher of the year. Alexis said he has developed a special bond with students not only teaching French but also serving as a senior advisor. ESUMS is both a middle and a high school.
“For senior year, students see me everyday,” Alexis said. “Winning teacher of the year was great because it felt good to be recognized.”
Maya McFadden photo
Sapphire Henry takes a selfie with Talima Andrews-Harris, 6th grade social studies teacher.
Sapphire Henry’s entourage was loud and proud. Her family roared powerful cheers at she took center stage to claim her diploma
“I feel great!” Henry exclaimed.
Henry will be attending Southern Connecticut State University in the fall to major in biotechnology.
Andrews-Harris said the ceremony was overwhelming and exciting. “They have gone through so much and have gotten through it with perseverance,” she said of the graduates.
Robert Labulis.
Robert Labulis (pictured above) will move on from ESUMS after attending the school since sixth grade. Labulis plans to attend the University of New Haven next school year.
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Aelina Rodriguez drove up to the Lighthouse stage with a large handmade graduation cap replicating her own crafted by herself.
I’m glad we got something,” Aelina Rodriguez said, who plans to study art next year at Central Connecticut State University.
Families decked out their cars full “Congrats Grad!” style.
Graduate Alyson McCarthy celebrated at the graduation with two decorated cars. One was fashioned with a good luck banner picturing McCarthy.
Johnathan Yun walked across the stage to receive his honor diploma Wednesday.
Other parents went to every extent to get the perfect shot of their child graduating.
Arya Vairat was this year’s valedictorian.(Vairat is featured at the 9‑minute mark in the full video of the graduation, below.)
“I worked hard enough to be the valedictorian, so I guess I deserve it,” Vairat said.