Virtual Award Ceremonies held in Honor of Student Accomplishments

Written by: Noelle Hanek 
Springtime, particularly May and June, is the prime time for award ceremonies and concerts  held to recognize each student’s hard work throughout the year. Due to the unfortunate coronavirus situation, all of these events at first came to a halt. Luckily, Spartans have found a solution by hosting many of these highly anticipated ceremonies online. Therefore, the students, coaches, and teachers can still be formally congratulated for everything they have done.

Despite the restrictions and cancellations of all spring school events, the music programs were still able to hold virtual ceremonies. In place of the traditional music concerts that are held annually, this year’s concerts were instead hosted online through Google Meet on the day of the planned concert. Music students, teachers, and their families attended the virtual meetings from the comfort of their own homes. 

Band students held their ceremony on May 5. That evening, Mr. Lopez and Dr. Gianuzzi delivered wonderful speeches about their seniors and discussed their amazing music and achievements throughout the years. Multiple talented seniors received awards and scholarships for their hard work. The ceremony wrapped up on a cheerful note after the teachers thanked everyone for a great year.

 A similar event was held on the evening of May 13 to recognize the Orchestra students. The musicians were dressed in black with instruments in hand like they would at a normal concert, and together played a final song in honor of the seniors. The Orchestra teacher, Ms. Bach gave a speech to commemorate accomplishments throughout the year. She recognized every senior and did so by naming each one, their favorite song performed, and their favorite orchestra moment during their time at Sparta High School.

These events were filled with bittersweet moments. Goodbyes are always sad, but the virtual concerts were a time to be proud. While it was unfortunate that the students could not play their music in the concert auditorium, they were still recognized for their work and their dedication performance was evident. 

In addition to the music world, many winter athletes are expecting a banquet of their own to make up for the cancellation of a planned event meant to follow their hardworking season. During these banquets, it is likely the distribution of awards is likely, as are the heartfelt speeches to be delivered. Certain sports, like the ice hockey team, are hoping to host an event over the summer if possible, however this cannot be currently confirmed. Even if they do not get a banquet of their own, congratulations to all teams (including the spring teams) for their incredible contributions to the Sparta athletics.

These virtual events are all a part of a time period that will make history. While these events cannot replace the loss of the ones that were to be held in person, they were still a light in the community that commemorated the Spartans' hard work throughout the year.  Banquet or no banquet, the dedication shown this year will not be forgotten.

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