Marina Vikings class of 2021 sails into the future

Marina High School bid a fond farewell to about 570 graduates in the class of 2021 on Thursday afternoon at Westminster High.

Marina assistant principal of activities Ashleigh Broullard said this was the 56th graduating class since the school opened in 1963.

The Vikings went through change this year, like all schools in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic. Marina’s principal, Jessie Marion, was out on maternity leave, so Brenna Jimenez-Orr served as the Vikings’ interim principal.

Jesse Pratall points to his family in the stands during the Marina High School graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 17.

(Scott Smeltzer / Staff Photographer)

Student speakers at Marina’s graduation included a pair of magna cum laude graduates, Shelbie Smith and Ezekiel Wright.

“This year, in and of itself, has been one of the most interesting years in the history of education,” Broullard said in an email. “We are so thankful and fortunate that we are able to host an in-person graduation where our graduates, the class of 2021, are able to cross the stage and receive their diplomas with their loved ones in the audience.”

Last year, the Vikings held a drive-through graduation.

Jaylen Sams adjusts his tassel during the Marina High School graduation ceremony on Thursday, June 17.

(Scott Smeltzer / Staff Photographer)

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