This was not the graduation ceremony that we had imagined, it was better! How do you mark time during Covid 19? How do you make a certain day stand out? Ask the wonderful teachers at Bridge View School and they will show you!
So, obviously, the traditional graduation ceremony was not going to happen, but Mr Boo has never been one to stand on ceremony anyway. May 16, 2020 was his big day. I had spent days telling him that he was a senior, about to graduate and what a big deal that was. We went to the store and got party supplies and lots of candy (his choice). We scrubbed and decorated the house. We even got the dog groomed. To my profound relief the weather held off and it did not rain until that night. At the appointed hour a long queu of cars full of Bridge View teachers and staff pulled up in front of the house honking and playing loud music. Boo’s eyes got huge. Out popped teacher Lars with a big yard sign and a cap and gown. We stuck the sign in the ground and draped Boo in his cap and gown. Teacher Sonia jumped out of her car with gift bags and a hug. She snapped a quick photo and hopped back in her car. Hoards of teachers in cars poured down the street honking and cheering. Boo looked stunned, yet very pleased. Neighbors came out of their houses to clap and cheer. Mommy laughed, cried, and snapped pictures. Alisaa took even more pictures. Dogs barked, horns honked, neighbors cheered and it was a perfect racket. It was absolutely wonderful! Eventually, all the teachers drove on to the next graduate’s house and suddenly it grew quiet again. More pictures were taken with favorite PCAs and friends and then the party began. Mr. Boo ate himself into a sugar induced oblivion and collapsed on his bed in a fit of giggles. Dear friends visited as if we had not seen each other in months. Oh, that’s right, we had not seen each other in months. Boo seemed happy to mostly hang out in his room and receive visitors one at a time. Every time I caught his eye he beamed at me and giggled. It was a perfect day.
In retrospect, this was probably the best kind of ceremony for Boo. He is not one to stand on Pomp and Circumstance. He probably would have tuned out somone’s well intentioned graduate speech. But, he loves his teachers and his friends. Honking cars and flying flags are lots of fun. Candy is good stuff. This day had all of these things and more. This was really all he wanted and needed. Thank you so much to all the Bridge View teachers and staff who gave up their Saturday afternoon. Thank you to Peter, Alissa, and Jessie, who have seen us through the good times and the hard times. Thank you to all of our dear friends, near and far who sent their best wishes and love. Thank you to all of you who have supported us on this nearly 18 year journey. Boo Bear loves you. May I present to you, Mr. Boo Bear Herndon, high school graduate!
Harriet's Hedgehogs and Autism Advocacy 