Sailing with Sailer : Ludlowe and Warde Graduation 2020

Flag and sunset during Warde graduation

Full disclosure: I was doing different things at each of the ceremonies, which is why I was able to more photos and different photos at Ludlowe's.

Congrats to the Fairfield Class of 2020 who graduated from Ludlowe and Warde this week. It wasn't the ending of the school year you wanted or anyone wanted for you, but it was great that you were all able to celebrate you together as a class.

The graduation's were held at Jennings Beach, with Ludlowe's taking place on Tuesday night and Warde's on Wednesday night. This was done so there could be a drive-in ceremony and still have the walking across the stage factor and may other parts of a traditional (non-pandemic) ceremony.

The parents and families watched from their cars, along with their graduates. Each homeroom was called up one at a time as graduates were socially distanced and could take their mask off as their name was called and they crossed the stage, picked up their diploma case and take a photo. They were then directed to a table to pick up their actual diploma, then to a line where they would take a second photo, before they returned to their cars.

Warde seniors graduate

I know it was a lot of work for all who were involved in making it happen, from the planning to all the set up to the actual event. And many people were part of it for both nights. So many people who were instrumental in making this happen, including First Selectwoman Brenda Kupchick and the Town of Fairfield, Department of Public Works, Anthony Calabrese, Matt Narwold, and the Parks & Recreation Department, Mike Cummings, Greg Hatzis, Paul Cavanna and the Board of Education. In addition, all the other faculty, staff and volunteers who made it happen. I included a lot of people and groups, but I am sure I missed someone. No slight intended.

Ludlowe headmaster Greg Hatzis addresses crowd

For the circumstances, I thought both nights went really well, and have even heard people who say they want graduation to be done this way going forward. We will see.

Great speeches by all of the students who gave them.

Ludlowe Valedictorian James Flink gives his speech

It was nice to see all the students, parents and staff, and at the very least, say a quick hello.

Ludlowe staff and faculty create welcome line as families drive in

I know I am not supposed to play favorites, but this is a special class and one of my favorite classes. Fun, kind group of kids. Going to miss you all.

Honored to work at both schools.Congrats, Class of 2020! You will all go on and do great things.

Some more photos below...