This year, to highlight the accomplishments and celebrate the futures of the Class of 2020, the seniors at TPH have decided to run a matriculations list. We asked students to tell us, in five words or fewer, their post-high school plans. Especially with limited communication during this chaotic time, we want to provide the student body with closure and the opportunity to connect with their classmates as this year comes to a close. In addition, we want to recognize the hard work that each senior has put in throughout their time at PHS and honor their exciting paths to come.
Last year, the TPH seniors made the decision not to run a matriculations list for the first time in the publication’s history, to address concerns about inducing stress around the college applications process and to reduce the emphasis on college in the midst of the college admissions scandal. As a publication whose primary goal is to inform, TPH wanted to avoid perpetuating a culture of competition around college admissions. However, in our decisions this year, the TPH seniors aim to reframe the matriculations tradition to highlight the variety in students’ post-graduation plans.
Additionally, due to the coronavirus, the second semester of this school year has been unlike any other, with an especially nontraditional end for the senior class. Activities like prom, Day On the Green, and Grad Night are longer feasible, and we will not have the opportunity to walk the halls together one last time. By running matriculations, we hope to provide a sense of normalcy, even in these unpredictable times.
We believe that the Class of 2020 is a remarkable group of students, and as we round out the year, we want to ensure that their efforts and talents are recognized. Rather than dwelling on the things we have lost this year, by running matriculations, we hope to focus on the bright future to come.
From the TPH seniors