Aurora Central Catholic High School Class of 2021

Graduates in the Class of 2021: 127

Valedictorians: Patrick Engelhardt and Ryan Lee

Salutatorian: Tori Lee

Class President: Gracie Hare

Academic achievements:

• Eleven Illinois State Scholars

• Nine students won a Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley scholarship.

• Two students were awarded Lucile Gustafson Scholarships (2-year, full ride to WCC).

• Three seniors were recognized as National Merit Commended Students.

• One senior student was chosen for the Golden Apple Scholarship.

• Six seniors doubled their service hour requirement (200+ hours).

• One student will graduate with 40.5 credits.

• One student earned a perfect score, 36, on the ACT.

•. Three students will be in three different branches of the military (Coast Guard, Army and

National Guard).

Athletic achievements:

• Bobby Scianna broke a school record of having 7 passing touchdowns in a game.

• The ACC Dance Team qualified for State for the 9th year in a row and earned 6th overall.

• The ACC Women's Tennis Team are Conference Champions for the 3rd year in a row.

• Three of our senior football players were chosen as All-Conference Selections for the Metro Suburban Conference.

Theater productions:

• Sleepy Hollow (Fall)

• Bright Star

What traditional events were adapted for the pandemic and how?

The homecoming dance and football game were canceled, but we still did homecoming court and crowned a King/Queen. We also had a spirit week where we had a different dress themes each day. Prom was also canceled, but instead we celebrated "Senior Week" May 10-14, with different activities planned throughout the week and themed dress down days for seniors only. We also are crowning a Prom King/Queen as well.

What were the most significant challenges faced by the Class of 2021 and how did they overcome them?

"I think the biggest challenge was not having normal memorial events seniors typically have. We couldn't have dances, pep rallies, senior lock in, normal college visits, normal sports. However, Fr. Etheredge did give us the opportunity to be in person all year, which many other senior classes did not get. His leadership and optimism brought us many other ways to have small victories, such as off-campus retreats that allowed our class to have connection during these uncertain times and isolation."

- Gracie Hare, Class of 2021

Principal's reflections on the Class of 2021:

The Class of 2021 began the year with so many questions raised by the health concerns of the pandemic. Yet, the ACC Class of 2021 rose to these challenges. They were in school and in class every single day at ACC, and it was clear they were happy to be here in-person, learning with their peers. They also met the challenges set before them with a good sense of humor and 'smiles' behind their masks.

- The Rev. F. William Etheredge