Congratulations Class of 2020: Parade Visits More Than 40 Grads’ Homes

In response to the canceled graduation ceremonies this year, Mayor Leonard Desiderio led a graduation parade June 17. The parade lasted more than three hours, which included two fire trucks, an ambulance, and a police car, stopped at more than three dozen homes of 2020 graduates, ranging from preschool to college.

“The parade was a wonderful success, and we thoroughly enjoyed visiting over 40 residences to honor students who recently completed their studies on the grammar school, high school and university level,” Desiderio said. “My congratulations and best wishes go to all of the graduates in Sea Isle City, and I remind each graduate that an education is a blessing that can never be taken from you; however, the wisest people on earth are those who realize that there’s always more to learn.”

Graduates and their families had signed up to participate in the parade. Desiderio stopped at each home and congratulated each family from afar due to social-distancing regulations. Members of the community and neighbors of each graduate popped out to clap and cheer for the graduates as well.

While this might not have been a traditional graduation ceremony, each of the graduates will remember this unique celebration for years to come.