Banners Honor Ridgewood High Seniors After Year Altered By COVID

RIDGEWOOD, NJ — The Ridgewood High School Alumni Association understands that the class of 2021 didn't have a normal end to their high school career, so they stepped in to try and give them a lift.

A group of alumni, which included Superintendent Thomas Gorman, Ridgewood High Principal Jeff Nyhuis and Bergen County Commissioner Ramon Hache, began hanging senior banners throughout the village over the weekend. They started at sunrise on Saturday, and by the end of the day had hung 436 banners across the village.

The banners are a gift, according to the alumni association, but also a sign of understanding and appreciation.

"You are proof that you can withstand the challenges and obstacles put before you these past 15 months as Covid-19 continues to impact our lives—individually, as a community and as a nation," the association said.

"We are so proud of this year’s graduates, a community of young, vibrant, creative, enthusiastic, talented and compassionate young adults. We also want to wish you all the best in your future endeavors, whether college/university bound, engaging in the workforce, traveling, or still deciding on plans moving forward."

Looking for a banner? Here's where they can be located, from the alumni association.

"Between now and Graduation Day, we hope that you will walk through Ridgewood to locate your banner, take a photo, share with family and friends and post on social media (#rhsalum21). The banners are our gift to you.

Banners have been randomly hung on fences in high traffic areas at RHS (facing East Ridgewood Avenue), BF Middle School (facing Glen Avenue), Graydon Park (facing both Linwood and Maple Avenues), GW Middle School (on Monroe Street facing Citizens Park) and Citizens Park (facing Monroe Street and Godwin Avenue) and will remain hanging through June 30th. Anytime after this date, you are welcome to take your banner home as our gift to you."

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