NORTH ADAMS, Mass. — Faced with another unconventional year, Drury High School senior Ryan Goodell didn't want the class of 2021 to go without the recognition they deserved.

 

"Frequently our class was feeling a little unheard by the community because not many people besides other students could relate to what we were going through, and we often missed seeing one another," Goodell said. "Because of being quarantined, all we had was social media to communicate with one another, and the best way to do this was through Facebook, but we wanted to share our goals, passions, and share our history at Drury with everyone, so they could see."

 

So Goodell created a Facebook page where he could showcase members of the class. He created images of his classmates that include their plans after high school, whatever they may be.

 

"Well, this year has been completely unconventional and because we aren't able to be in the building, we have no way to share the good news about our college acceptances or share what we want to do, except for use of social media," he said. "As well as last year's DHS class did the same, but I added some more of my own twists."

 

Goodell created a Google Survey for his classmates to fill out. They could include attending college, entering the workforce, taking some time off, or attending an education program. Most seniors have submitted, but not all.

 

He said the illustrations take about 5 minutes to create.

 

"People love them. Especially the family or close friends of each senior, as they share and comment," he said. "Teachers from Drury have been active as well by commenting every once in a while. But that's what amazes me about this group, is most of the likes are by the current seniors of the class of 2021, and it shows me just how much our class truly supports one another and lifts each other up." 

 

Goodell said he is happy to wrap up this pandemic school year, and although his class did not have a conventional senior year, he will be glad to actually be with his class upon graduation this Thursday.

 

"Obviously, no one would have wanted our graduation to be like this. And this school year, so totally different," he said. "It's been a struggle for most, but in the end, we have completed it and we get to graduate in some way. We did lose out on so much, but I look for the positive, and at graduation, just being with my class altogether for one more time is what matters most."

 

He added a final congratulation to his class who graduate Thursday.

 

"I just want to shout a big congratulations to all the seniors everywhere for making it through such a difficult year," he said. "Two years ago, we thought we knew all about technology from staring at our phones, but now we literally know everything."