How the coronavirus pandemic shaped the 2020 senior class
The coronavirus outbreak disrupted the lives of students around the world. In Georgia, schools statewide closed their doors in March and remained closed for the rest of the school year.
For the high school and college classes of 2020 that meant a loss of traditional coming-of-age rituals like prom and graduation, replaced with socially distanced celebrations and drive-by ceremonies.
Through it all the seniors persevered, learning to adapt to the new normal of life during a pandemic.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution followed several area high school and college students through their last months of the school year, talking with them about how their lives were impacted and what it all means for their futures.
Read about the unprecedented school year, the 11 students profiled by the AJC and hear how they faced the challenges.
READ | COVID crisis forces Class of 2020 to become the Class of Perseverance
READ | Class of 2020: Anxious, energized, eager to meet the future
WATCH | 2020: The Class of Perseverance
About the Authors
A Midwesterner by birth, but a Southerner by heritage, Arlinda Smith Broady has a combination of solid values, easy-going charm and unrelenting thirst for knowledge that makes her a not only a dedicated journalist, but a compassionate community member. She seeks truth and justice, but is just as eager to spread good news and share a witty story.
Eric Stirgus joined The Atlanta Journal-Constitution in 2001. He is the newsroom's education editor. Born and raised in Brooklyn, N.Y., Eric is active in the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists and the Education Writers Association and enjoys mentoring aspiring journalists.
