The McCallum High School community, staff, families and friends joined together June 16 to celebrate the 2020 graduating class through a virtual ceremony.

Superintendent Paul Cruz congratulated the graduates of this year's class via a video statement. His remarks were followed by a speech from Principal Brandi Hosack.

"I find solace in knowing that we're sending out a group of people into this world that will make a difference," Hosak said. "Everyone hears that at graduation — go out, make a difference — but I believe you will actually do it."

Next, Salutatorian Blair Kinsey spoke about the struggle of leaving McCallum early and the strength of the Class of 2020. 

"We have each faced our own unique set of struggles and trials — personal, academic and everything in between," Kinsey said. "I by no means understand the scope of what each of you has had to overcome, but I know just by the fact that we're all here today that we have proven to be resilient, strong and a force to be reckoned with."

Before the reading of the names of each graduating senior, Valedictorian Carolina Arellano shared how McCallum became a welcoming place and read her peer's feelings on favorite memories of McCallum. 

"As we consider these moments, we can truly see what McCallum means to everybody around us," Arellano said. "A sunrise, a garden, a warm and welcoming teacher, or simply the group of people that surrounds us. On behalf of the Class of 2020, we would like to thank you for the experiences we made here — the good, the bad, our tears and our laughs — and for shaping our future in one way or another."

The ceremony concluded with a reading of the names of each graduating senior. 

The AISD community is proud of our students and eager to see their future accomplishments. Congratulations to the Class of 2020! We are #AISDProud of our #AISDGrads!