The highlight of the school year was supposed to be the first graduation in the history of the school; however, COVID-19 forced graduations across the US to be canceled or postponed. Lucky for Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High School students, graduation was postponed to Saturday, August 8. Still, administrators and staff wanted to ensure a proper send-off and celebration for this deserving group of students.

A Senior Send-off Celebration was hosted for students and families that allowed everyone to celebrate the first graduating class. The pep rally like atmosphere was created with clappers, signs, and DJ Davidson, also known as Dean Davidson, moving the crowd to their feet. Students were introduced one-by-one to families, friends, and Corporate Work Study Partners as they cheered for their accomplishments. Students took their final lap around the Mary Help of Christians Gymnasium by stopping to get their cap and gown from Principal Torano, snapping a photo with President Morreale, picking up a swag bag and senior t-shirt, enjoying some sweet treats and a photo booth, and topping it off with a generous gift from LIFT, a volunteer group.

As these young adults basked in the excitement of their final lap as a Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High School student, one thing was made clear; this memorable celebration reminded us that through adversity and challenge, we can still move forward and succeed.

Congratulations to the first graduating class of Cristo Rey Tampa Salesian High School, the Class of 2020. We look forward to the formal graduation ceremony on August 8, 2020.  #CRTproud