Local seniors savor high school memories with 2020 grad photos

COVID-19 has caused local high schools to have virtual graduations.

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - Graduation for the class of 2020 looks a lot different during this pandemic.

Yet, local seniors are still finding ways to savor the memories of their accomplishments.

Karla Aguilar, Bladimir Salazar, Josue Acosta, and Brandon Salazar are all KOFA High seniors who have been friends since middle school.

“We’ve been planning this since middle school to graduate together," the friends said.

They never expected to be graduating during a global pandemic.

After all, you only graduate high school once, and the class of 2020 is capturing this major achievement regardless of the circumstances.

On Main Street in Downtown Yuma, Amber Karbowski took photos of her daughter who’s graduating from Gila Ridge.

Karbowski said, “My mother took photographs of me when I was getting ready to graduate in my regalia.”

It’s a family tradition.

Sabrina Karbowski, her daughter, said, “My mom did [took grad photos], I was determined on doing it for my senior year. I think after 18 years of schooling and four years of high school, I think I deserve to take my photos.”

The group of KOFA students' selfies depicts friendship.

Completing one journey and enduring another uncertain one together.

All realize moments are fleeting and life changes quickly, but photos can capture a memory forever.