Reflection from a 2023 graduate

By: Ted Campbell May 31, 2023

Graduation is days away and I can’t help but reflect upon my four years in high school that were interrupted by COVID-19.

The pandemic prematurely ended my freshman year, made my sophomore year mostly online, and forced us to wear face masks throughout most of my junior year. Only my senior year was unaffected by the pandemic. At the time, I wanted it to be over. But later on it taught me many valuable lessons.

It wasn’t until my junior year that I was able to experience Chizzle Wizzle, a long standing tradition that I had heard much about. I had heard whispers from the upperclassmen my freshman year. But I had to see it for myself to understand the creativity of the student body.

Sports seasons did not proceed as normal and dances were not held. It was certainly difficult to maintain school spirit in those times. Starting in the 2021-22 school year, we were back in school full-time. This marked the beginning of a healing process for the spirit of Cony.

I was even supposed to go to Germany during the summer of 2021 with my language class, but it was postponed twice due to COVID-19.

The school year began to gradually return to normal the following fall. While there were still some irregularities, such as the need for masks and pool-testing, returning to school benefitted myself and my peers.

If my high school experience were not interrupted, I would have taken these events, trips and activities for granted. But because I’ve lived in a world without school spirit, traditions or community, I can’t help but appreciate them.

I’m finally going to Germany this summer and afterwards I’ll be attending the University of Southern Maine to study political science. These four years have flown by quickly and I’m excited for what’s next.

It wasn’t a traditional high school experience, but this one definitely gave me a unique perspective and appreciation for the importance of community.