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The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically altered the end of high school for Prince Edward County High School’s (PECHS) class of 2020. Nevertheless, administrators and teachers found a way to recognize seniors this month in lieu of a formal graduation ceremony that will come later.

Seniors and their families were invited to campus for a special Celebrating Our Seniors drive-thru recognition Thursday afternoon, May 21, and Friday, May 22. Details on the Prince Edward County Public Schools Facebook page noted that one car per senior was allowed, and the drive-thru looped around behind the high school building.

Seniors were asked to come dressed in cap and gown and to exit their vehicle when they reached the front of the line. Families were asked to remain in the vehicle at all times, but many rolled down their windows and were diligently taking photos and videos of their graduates with their phones.

Seniors were given their yearbook, a personalized yard sign and had their picture taken by a professional photographer.

About 80 of the 137 graduates pressed on through the rain Thursday afternoon and evening to be recognized, as administrators and teachers were on hand from 4-7 p.m. School officials started the drive-thru recognition Friday at 9 a.m. and will continue until 1 p.m.

For a gallery of photos from the start of the May 21 drive-thru session, click here.