Canyon High School celebrated the class of 2020 with a drive-through graduation at Central Park Wednesday morning.

Jamie Araki / KHTS News

Hundreds of graduates and their families lined up their vehicles in Central Park to honor the class which has undergone so much during their last semester of high school

“I am thrilled that the students of Canyon High were able to participate in our drive through graduation commencement ceremony today. They have worked incredibly hard and deserve praise and recognition for their perseverance in this unprecedented time in education,” said Canyon High Principal, Shellie Holcombe.

Each student was driven through Central Park, exited their vehicle and was awarded their diploma one by one to keep a safe distance.

The class of 2020 has faced more than their share of challenges and through it all they never wavered in their conviction for excellence. These Cowboys are an example for us all. I am incredibly proud of the class of 2020,” Holcombe said.

The Canyon class of 2020 includes 512 graduates, 97 of whom graduate with honors. This year’s Valedictorian is Alen Iqbal and the Salutatorian is Lauren Jenkins.

“Santa Clarita we’re a community, especially our high schools, we do a lot of community events, we are very involved,” said Jenesis Smith-Thomas, senior class president. “It is important that we see each other as a community and celebrate as a community.”

Jamie Araki / KHTS News

The class president recognized all of the work their peers have done, and wanted to show appreciation for their classmates and faculty.

“I feel especially grateful to see my friends here and I am able to congratulate them for all of their hard work,” said Smith-Thomas. “I am also very grateful the teachers are able to congratulate us for all of the work we have done.

When asked for a message to their peers, the class president noted the long journey the class of 2020 has persevered through to get to graduation

“It has been a long road, a long journey, a rough one especially, but we’re all warriors, we’re all made of the toughest stuff,” said Smith-Thomas. “I know we can do it, we have done it, and we’re going to do more and come out successful.”

Jamie Araki / KHTS News

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