Last school year, all the class of 2020 got for graduation was a video with their names announced and a congratulations.  Their in-person graduation was cancelled and the ceremony ended up online.

This year, the class of 2021 will have an in-person graduation. That’s got a couple of recent graduates, like SBHS class of 2020 Kevin Gutierrez, feeling a bit resentful.

“I feel a bit more jealous and envious since we didn’t have ours but it’s not anyone’s fault due to the pandemic being new,” said Kevin Gutierrez, a student of South Broward’s class of 2020. “ Everyone’s safety comes first and we can’t be selfish.” 

This year, the class of 2021 will have an in-person ceremony. Graduation will happen in person at the AutoNation Drive Park Stadium, on June 6th, at 8:00AM. 

“I feel grateful that we have a graduation and it’s going to be at a stadium,” said Michael Ferrey, a 2021 senior. “Even if it’s going to be pretty hot and on a Sunday.” 

But, there are some restrictions. Usually, every student gets four tickets, this year students will only get two. This means not everyone in a student’s family can go. Some students have even gone as far as to try to buy tickets from others. 

This rule isn’t only at South Broward, but at all Broward County Public Schools. These plans are to ensure compliance with restrictions for capacity and health and safety guidelines.

“I honestly feel like we should get more tickets instead of two because I know there are families that have been waiting for this moment for a long time,” said Ferrey. He is inviting his mom and dad to graduation. 

Others, like SBHS senior Jacob Kardos, think that the two ticket rule is fair.  He believes there isn’t much the school board can do about the situation. 

“I can’t say that I personally like or dislike it,” said Kardos. “I just know it’s the best the school can do.” 

 Many students from the class of 2021 feel for the class of 2020 and think they deserve more. Restrictions, like masks and reduced ticket numbers, aside, overall the class of 2021 is grateful.

“The class of 2020 did deserve more than what we got but we are at least grateful for what they had to offer,” said Gutierrez. “There are more important pandemic problems around the world than our school problems.”