With the Covid-19 Pandemic redefining the 2019-2020 school year, high school graduating seniors across the United States faced the harsh reality of not being recognized for their academic and community efforts in the traditional format.  Virtual, drive in, and/or social distance events/activities became the options to honor these youth.  Marshall County, Kentucky was not any different…in some ways.  

The Marshall County High School Class of 2020 is the face of strength, perseverance, and determination.  This year’s group of Seniors have not had a “normal” high school experience since their Sophomore year.  The morning of January 23, 2018 changed their lives forever when one of their own classmates open fired in the high school commons killing two of his classmates and injuring 12 others.   Sophomore year was not how these students thought it would be.

Junior year was faced with a high school under major reconstruction and was a constant changing building.  Classes were not in their “normal” spot.  Hammers, paint fumes, construction dust, and temporary walls here and there dotted their school.  Junior year was not how these students thought it would be.

Senior year.  Construction done.  High school “semi-normal” again with football and basketball homecomings, first semester completed, girls’ basketball team in the state tournament, then Covid-19 shut it all down.  Having to complete schoolwork via the computer or picking up paper/pencil packets to be done at home.  Being told to stay at home and away from friends.  Spring break trips cancelled due to travel bans.  Graduation ceremony…not the same.  Senior year was not how these students thought it would be.  

Nor was this how the community dreamt it would be to recognize a class that has been through so much.  Creative ways to honor these youth were put into action by many different folks and organizations.  The Marshall County 4-H Youth Development Agent developed “Forever 4-Her Salutes” to recognize current and past active 4-Hers who were part of 4-H Clubs and/or attended 4-H Camp on a regular basis.  The 4-H Agent reached out to Class of 2020 students’ parent/guardians who were 4-Hers asking for pictures, background info, etc.  She put together two minute slide videos that ran for six weeks on Fridays.  A Marshall County Class of 2020 4-Her was recognized each time.  The “Forever 4-Her Salute” videos had over 1,700 views, but most importantly it gave 4-H the opportunity to recognize and honor the wonderful teen leaders who have helped make Marshall County 4-H great!