Dear Editor:

In this time of uncertainty, we are constantly being surrounded by so many unknowns. I am writing because something very good happened in my community which reminded me of something I have known for years. This town cares about our kids! Due to the threat of COVID-19, schools were closed and the WMHS seniors were faced with the fact that a traditional graduation was not going to happen for them. The sadness in their hearts was real. The very thing they had worked so hard to experience was not going to happen.

It was then that this small community came to life and worked together to make this year’s graduation one for the record books, a celebration which will be remembered for many years to come. Not only were the diplomas awarded in an amazing setting due to the generosity of the owners of the Wiscasset Speedway, but also immense support was shown by the community after the ceremony as many townspeople came out to cheer on the parade of graduates in their families’ vehicles led by fire trucks and police cars. The smiles on the faces of the graduates said it all!

Their pride and happiness was truly evident as they waved to the crowds and made their way to WMHS to enjoy an awesome fireworks show made possible by Big Al and Chuck Thayer! What a fabulous ending to an incredible night! Without the support of many local businesses this would not have been possible. Their very generous donations were so appreciated! They made it possible to purchase Class of 2020 lawn signs, sweatshirts, celebration food packages for graduates and their families, fireworks, ceremony DVDs for each graduate and other graduation costs. The hard work and planning by WMHS Assistant Principal Warren Cossette supported by Principal Charles Lomonte and parents was so incredible! I am so proud of my amazing community for truly coming together with our school to make something so positive and good happen for our kids. Well done, Wiscasset! We are small but we are mighty!

Deb Pooler

WMHS senior class advisor