Pomp, despite the circumstances: Amherst seniors relieved to get ceremony, even if it's smaller

AMHERST — There were mixed feelings of triumph and defeat on display Wednesday as the Marion L. Steele High School Class of 2020 started to receive diplomas. "It's weird. It was really awkward walking on stage," Amarissa Amador said after playing her part in the strange commencement remix forced by the COVID-19 crisis. Only a few people were allowed inside at a time to limit exposure to the virus. Some graduates wore face masks, and parents, not teachers, were the ones handing out diplomas in near silence. The rolling ceremony will take about 18 hours spread over three days for the 313 graduates to cross the cafeteria stage. The venue isn't what seniors envisioned when they started the year. Amherst usually holds commencement at the Cleveland State Wolstein Center, where there is room for thousands to attend and fill the air with cheers. "We tried to keep as much tradition as we could," said Principal Joe Tellier, standing in front of the stage, which was decorated with the school's green and gold colors. Shaking his head, Tellier said students deserved more and wished he could have given them more. "At least we have it," said senior Sydney Bennett, waiting for her turn to march. The end of the year has been tough for the class, she said — missing prom was especially difficult for Bennett, who had been excited to dance the night away with her boyfriend. Classmate Sierra Bellisario said she is glad she moved to Amherst in her sophomore year. Expressing relief that there would be at least some pomp despite the circumstances, she described the graduation experience as "one-of-a-kind." And while the ceremony was small, she said family planned to make graduation memorable by gathering for dinner at her grandparents' home. "It's different but exciting. It's something new and it's fun," said Amherst Board of Education member Teresa Gilles, who wore a mask to congratulate each senior. "I think the kids are surprised by what is set up for them, and I think they really like everything," she said. Each student's turn on stage was recorded, and will be edited into a complete video. A DVD of the ceremony will be sent to their families. Tellier and company also will hold a send-off parade for seniors. It will start at 6 p.m. May 21 from Amherst Junior High. As the vehicle parade winds through town, it will visit each school building, where teachers will be waiting to say goodbye. The rain date is May 22. Contact Jason Hawk at (440) 329-7122 or news@lcnewspapers.com.