By Jenny Ly
Medill Reports

For seniors Brina Taylor and Brejona Hutchinson, June 10, 2020 was marked in their calendars as one of the best days of their lives.

The two students at George Westinghouse College Prep, located in the East Garfield Park neighborhood on the west side of Chicago, were devastated to learn that their graduation was no longer happening as planned due to the global pandemic.

Instead, Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced in a statement that there will be a virtual graduation for all graduating Chicago Public School seniors.

When the girls aren’t busy with cheerleading or working as a teacher assistant, they are actively involved with Breakthrough, a program in East Garfield park that partners with those affected by poverty. The program builds connections, develops skills and opens doors of opportunity.

While there is no set date for the virtual graduation, the mayor’s office has said it is for mid-June.