COVID-19: Santa Maria’s public high schools celebrate graduation with drive-through

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - For many at Santa Maria, Righetti and Pioneer Valley High schools, being a graduating senior during COVID-19 hasn’t been easy.

“I was a little bit disappointed I missed out on the prom activities everything else senior activities and everything else,” said graduating student David Valencia of Righetti High School.

Despite all the hardships, 2,000 students graduated from Santa Maria Joint Union High School District.

While some found the drive-through celebration to be unusual, nothing stopped these students from feeling proud. 

"I’m very excited to have all my family here," said graduating student Karissa Rodriguez of Pioneer Valley High School.

Even though these students won’t forget the unique drive-through celebration, they say it makes them even more grateful for what they already have.

"I’m with my parents my little brother and my sister, and I feel excited to be graduating today," said graduating student Roman Gutierrez of Santa Maria High School.

Santa Maria’s public high schools celebrated graduation with virtual and physical events all day Friday.