Sandhoke Early College High School’s 2020 graduates put on a full display of their determination to make it the best graduation ever Friday despite the non traditional ceremony. Said Principal Colleen Pegram-Wike, “When I got inquiries as to whether they can decorate caps and vehicles, I knew we would be in for a real treat.”

Beginning at 9 a.m. a video was released showcasing the Graduate Lindsey Ross singing the National Anthem and Dylan Pollender rendering an invocation. Graduate Dejanirah Giraud welcomed graduates, family members and guests. Graduates Donald Luckett, Aalyiah Wade, Anyia Bell, Zoe Beshillas and Luis Reyes-Pineda shared words of wisdom and farewells to their peers and Rosina Eatmon led the graduates in turning the tassel. (The video, assembled by alumni Katelyn Fowler, is available to view on the SHECHS website and Facebook Page.)

At 110 a.m., SandHoke’s graduates began the drive-through procession.

There were fire truck and motorcycle escorts. Vehicles were creatively decorated. Graduation caps were decorated with colleges, and future plans. Family members cheered and honked horns as each graduate’s accolades were read and diplomas were presented.

Sandhoke graduated 89 students. Of them, 42 completed the associates degree, 13 completed 50-plus credits, and 10 completed 40 or more credits. One student has earned 68 credits toward an associate of applied science in Computer Technology and will complete this degree at Sandhills Community College in Fall 2020.

Of the 89 graduates, 45 are transitioning to four year universities. Two will return to Sandhills Community college for completion of computer technology and nursing degrees, and one will attend the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah. The remaining will enter the workforce to include the military.

The students were awarded over $1.2 million in scholarships as of Friday.