Graduates, start your engines!
This week, seniors of Alachua County's public high schools will officially become alumni.
There won’t be a traditional ceremony at the O’Connell Center. Graduates do get to walk across the stage but they also get to drive across the finish line at Gainesville Raceway.
Hundreds of graduates and their families packed the raceway the first day to show their support. Newberry High School Assistant Principal Kristopher Bracewell said given the circumstances, he is proud of what the students were able to accomplish.
“It was a tough year for so many people in so many ways but it’s good to see the graduates walk across the stage smiling,” Bracewell said.
Graduates are now off on a new journey. Alexis Ross is excited.
“I’m going to go to Florida Gateway for social and behavioral sciences,” Ross said.
Jaylen Zullo said he plans on continuing sports, “Just ready to go off to college and play ball.”
Many other grads, like Kylan Lee, voiced gratitude.
“I feel really excited. We’ve come a long way, we had a lot thrown at us this year and for everyone, I'm just really proud of them and myself, “ Lee said.
Drive-thru ceremonies are planned for all Alachua County public high schools this week.