Huntington High School’s Class of 2020 graduated early last summer, but the group is still determined to help their alma mater shine. If there was ever any doubt that these teenagers genuinely care about others, this should put those notions to rest.
The Class of 2020 was planning to fund some type of fun social event, with a field day being one such possibility, since it wasn’t able to enjoy a traditional senior prom due to the COVID-19 pandemic. But with the health crisis still raging, the new alums have changed their original plans since large group gatherings are still on hold.
Class members have decided to donate the more than $6,000 they raised over their four years of high school evenly to the current freshman, sophomore, junior and senior classes since those groups probably won’t have many fundraising opportunities this year.
“One year ago, we as seniors at that time, were very excited about collecting money,” said Daniela Ramos, president of the Class of 2020. “We tried our best to sell as many things as possible for our bake sales. We cooked about 100 waffles for the homecoming bonfire and we even made our own design for a senior sweatshirt. At the end we couldn’t hold all the fundraisers or events that we planned, but I am very sure that the time we spent collecting this money made our senior year very special. Now, we have all taken different paths and things are different. I know that the freshmen, sophomores, juniors and specially the seniors will not have the opportunity to experience all these activities, which is why the money we have collected will be donated to the Class of 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. In the name of the Class of 2020, I want to wish you all an amazing year and enjoy every single moment of high school!”
Class of 2020 members are now spread all over the country at dozens of colleges. But their experiences at Huntington High School will also bond them together and they care about those that are following in their footsteps.
“The Class of 2020 distinguished themselves in many ways over their years and this gesture is clearly another example of their selflessness, maturity and compassion for others,” Principal Brenden Cusack said. “I am sure this will be of great benefit to each of our current classes and we all owe the Class of 2020 a debt of gratitude.”
The Class of 2020 will always be remembered at Huntington High School and the graduates themselves are sure to never forget their alma mater.
“As a [student] government we decided that the money would be better utilized by the younger grades to do with it what they please,” said Madelyn Reed, who held Class of 2020 elected office for many years. “We know that fundraising this year is probably very difficult, so hopefully this will allow them to do something for themselves and their fellow classmates. I had an amazing experience in student government. I loved being at the forefront of planning events and trying to make the school a more fun and exciting place. Hopefully, this donation will allow some kids to feel that same excitement that I felt during my time in student government.”