Seniors, freshmen reflect on school year

SENIORS LOOK BACK....

Jenelle Bayor- Mustangs Ahead

(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL)- As Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS) Mustangs enter the fourth quarter, seniors are anticipating life after graduation.

Although this school year has been unusual, the class of 2021 still has things to celebrate and be excited about.

Senior Clayton Prezzama said, “It is exciting to almost be done with high school; however, I do feel sad that as I been this new chapter in my life, I will be leaving behind all of the memories I made here at the Ranch.”

Ella Botko said, “This year has been a wild ride and a lot of things have changed compared to the last three years here at the Ranch, but I am still grateful that I had somewhat of a senior year.”

Peter Fisichella said, “I have had a lot of great times and memories here at the Ranch, but I am very excited to be moving on to the next part of my life and graduate.”

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FRESHMEN LOOK FORWARD....

Tess Lippincott – Special to Mustangs Ahead

COVID-19 has changed and heavily affected the 2020-2021 school year, especially for freshman LRHS Mustangs.

Freshmen started their high school careers as a worldwide pandemic cancelled and restricted everything they do. As a result many freshmen believe that they are not experiencing the true high school experience.

Many typical high school events have been altered as a result of COVID-19 restrictions and limitations. Changes impact sports activities such as football, soccer, and volleyball games which require all spectators to wear masks and social distance. Many art, music and other extracurricular activities have also been affected.

Although many freshmen feel as though they are not having a true high school experience, they understand that it is for their safety and that the measures the Ranch has taken is to keep them safe. The Ranch has been working hard to try to prevent the spread of COVID-19 through mask mandates, social distance, barriers, cleaning, one-way traffic, and more.

Freshman Connor Wren said, “I am glad to be back in school full time, I like the interaction and having time in the classroom. I am also able to enjoy school and what it has to offer even with the restrictions and limitations of COVID-19.”

Some Mustangs believe they need to be in the classroom in person to do their best work and focus. However, some prefer eLearning as they can do other activities and oversee their own school schedule.

eLearning freshman Olivia Sharkoski said, “I prefer eLearning because I have time for other things while still focusing on school and getting good grades.”