Jesse will graduate from Metamora Township High School this year. Thanks to an ongoing global pandemic, Jesse, along with his fellow Class of 2022 graduates, experienced high school in a way that has been, without question, less-traditional. The Class of 2022 had one "normal" pre-pandemic school year...their freshman year. Think back to your own high school experience. Imagine having only one year to acclimate yourself to the culture and expectations of high school before the whole world shut down, and you were left to reacclimate and adjust to a variety of changes and challenges. In spite of these changes and challenges, the Class of 2022 has had the unique opportunity to learn the value of adaptability. Adaptability isn't inherent. It's a learned skill, and in my opinion, a skill that will serve the Class of 2022 long after they receive their diplomas. These kids will know how to thrive under the most difficult of circumstances. As we all can agree, life's curveballs are simply unavoidable, but we are now beginning to see a new generation of better-equipped young adults emerging. This should give us all much hope for the future as we think about people like Jesse making their way out into the real world, navigating change and course-correcting along the way, because that's exactly what they now know how to do.
It was my honor to capture this moment in your story, Jesse! I wish nothing but the best for you in all of your future endeavors! Congratulations!
