Local

Year after virtual graduations, CMS seniors grateful for in-person ceremonies

CHARLOTTE — On Tuesday, after a year of so much uncertainty, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools seniors graduated in person.

It’s a big change from the virtual and drive-through ceremonies that took place last spring during the pandemic.

Graduates and their families gathered Tuesday morning outside Bojangles Coliseum where, after a challenging year, the celebration -- and others throughout the week -- helps make it feel like things are back to normal.

Samone Cullum will graduate from Ardrey Kell High School on Tuesday. She told Channel 9 the school year was hectic, with changing CDC guidelines disrupting normal activities like prom and seeing friends.

But Cullum said there were some positives, like being able to have the chance to think about meaningful relationships in her life and to be appreciative of the opportunity she has on Tuesday.

“I’m really grateful we’re in a place now where we can have a graduation in person safely,” she said. “I think it’s just made me that much more grateful for the opportunities I’ve had.

Cullum is focused on becoming an engineer at NASA and had the help from an Ardrey Kell staff member.

“I have a full ride to Davidson College through the Posse Foundation, and she was the one who saw my potential and nominated me for the whole process,” Cullum said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without her.”

CMS graduations at Bojangles Coliseum will continue through Saturday.

Each graduate gets four tickets.

(WATCH: County’s smallest students take big step at Meck Pre-K’s graduation ceremony)