Looking at the bright side: 2020 in review

Luke Leftwich - Senior, Editor-in-Chief / Jackson Hethcox, Junior, Opinions Editor | Features

2020 has obviously been a very strenuous year, not only because of the virus and tornado, but also because of internal struggles that 2020 has put on us. However, there are a lot of good things to celebrate about this year.

Audrey Birdwell, senior and Student Body President, prefers to focus on the positives instead of the negatives in retrograde. “We actually got to have student council and make fun new things for the student body, as well as have our homecoming. We couldn't have floats, but we also got to have banners.” said Birdwell.

Other CHS students expressed thanks for the simplicity of surviving the year at all. “The things that make 2020 positive would have to be the overwhelming support of our community... I am thankful for staying healthy, my family staying healthy, being able to have food for every meal.” said junior Nathaniel Harrison.

“Though 2020 was difficult for many of us, I am glad we could still have a basketball season and that the school is taking extra precautions with masks and social distancing.” said senior Laryn Sissom.

Some students rejected the idea that 2020 was the worst year yet at all.

“Despite what many people think, this year was not as chaotic as it could have been. There was not as much social chaos as there could have been. This year has not been the best -- it could have been better -- but I like how all of us banded together instead of completely fighting each other. We were able to find some common ground.” said senior Connor Wilson.

“Because of the new schedule this year, I have gotten to spend more time with my friends.” said sophomore Melonie Morgan.

“2020 might have been tough in many ways, but through many hours of having nothing to do, I have found more things I enjoy besides just sitting on my couch, like hiking or just getting out of the house in general. I also got my first job and I grew a couple inches. 2020 is only as bad as one makes it." said junior Phil Troutman.

“Due to the pandemic, I got to learn many new things about my culture, and what it means to be a Mexican-American woman in America. I was taught what an honor it is to be a Latina and that no matter what, I should speak my mind and let my voice be heard." said senior Victoria Olea.

“The Minecraft cave update got announced.” said senior Martin Stricklin.

Teachers and faculty across the board found healing in the otherwise loss-filled year. “I would like to celebrate that science works. Seeing a COVID vaccine get developed in 12 months is one of the greatest scientific achievements of all time.” said AP Chemistry teacher Mrs. Williams.

“I got to move back into my house.” said Pre-Cal teacher Mr. Melton.

“We have a brand-new JROTC instructor, so that’s something to celebrate. There’s a lot of new talent in JROTC.” said JROTC teacher Mr. Philpot.

“2020 has been a difficult year in so many ways, but once you peel back the layers, so much goodness has come out of it. Trials and tribulations actually bring people closer together.” said principal Mr. Petett.