2020 Parker grads
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Graduation 2020: Parker Junior High

The 340 graduates of Parker Junior High were decked out in their blue caps and gowns for the May 26 virtual graduation ceremonies that were shared through YouTube.

The 340 graduates of Parker Junior High were decked out in their blue caps and gowns for the May 26 virtual graduation ceremonies that were shared through YouTube.

“It’s certainly different for everyone. We’re just happy to be safe and healthy and to be able to celebrate our students in some way,” said Principal Amabel Crawford.  

Student Council and National Junior Honor Society students addressed their classmates. 

“I know we are all disappointed we didn’t get the eighth grade experience that we all expected,” said Victoria Plummer, vice president of NJHS. She is the daughter of Reginald Plummer and Rhonda Butler of Hazel Crest. “That doesn’t mean that we let that slow down our lives and our high school experience because we still do have other graduations we can attend, and that’s really important that people understand that.”

Student Council President Kevin Gibek, son of Dominick and Grace Gibek of Chicago Heights, said his message was: “Keep hope, keep going, stay strong and despite not having a traditional ceremony, look for the silver lining.”

Evelyn Cunneen, daughter of Elizabeth and Sean Cunneen of Flossmoor, addressed the class as president of NJHS focusing on the future. “Now that middle school is over, we are at the end of the first part of our story and moving into the next chapter of our lives,” she said. 

Occie Ellis IV, son of Occie Ellis III and Nadia Reed, vice president of Student Council, reminded students they’ve made it this far and should be celebrating their achievements.

The four graduates are excited to be going on to Homewood-Flossmoor High School.

Evelyn is looking forward to meeting new classmates and is ready for the challenge of her first Advanced Placement class. Occie wants to try some of the cooking programs.

Gibek wants to continue to enhance his leadership skills and be involved in student government, and Victoria will be part of the incoming International Baccalaureate Program. 

“I really am looking forward to chemistry. I’m not the biggest science person, but I always thought chemistry was really fun. I’m really excited to try it,” Victoria said. “I just am going to like high school overall.” 

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