Marco

Name Marco Perez

Graduating From: Paso Robles High School Degree: HS Diploma

https://www.pasoschools.org/prhs

Future Plans:  Attend Cuesta College for my general education, then transfer to a 4 year University.

What was it like when this all started: I remember that Friday.  There were rumours going around the school.  We didn’t believe they’d close school.  I remember thinking it wasn’t a big deal because I really didn’t think they would close for the rest of the year!

Some of the emotions I experienced: I was disappointed we weren’t going to be able to experience Grad Night, Graduation, and prom, but I try to make the best of any situation, so I don’t dwell on that. 

How I dealt with the situation:  I accept it and move on and do things because I can’t change the situation. I focused on doing my best in school and picked up extra hours at work.

What was it like staying at home: We use Google Classroom (https://edu.google.com/products/classroom/?modal_active=none) at PRHS.  You’re assigned homework during the day.  You click on your class and see what your assignments are and when things are due.  The teachers have office hours and they’re spread out so that my math teacher and my bio teacher have different hours so if I need help on one subject I contact the teacher during that time.  I was home schooled at one point in the past so I felt comfortable with the whole thing.  I do know I like the hands on in person school better.  I have to be in class to learn the most effectively.  

I talk to my friends every day.  We use discord and we do everything from do homework together, just chat, or play games.

It was weird the first couple times I went out and saw my friends in person again, with the social distance.  For example we took a trip to the beach recently.

Something that stood out during this experience:  I noticed how hard it was for some people to shelter-in-place.  The really social people had a hard time with it.  It’s hard for some people to be inside for so long.  It was hard for me, too, to sit inside all week.  I encourage people to get outside!

Something that Surprised me:  I was surprised how much the high school involved the students and their parents in brain-storming about what to do to celebrate graduation.

What were some of the things discussed at your school to do in place of the normal commencement ceremony:  We’ve discussed multiple plans.  Some ideas were to decorate cars and pick up diplomas and cap and gown.  For me what’s more important is to celebrate somehow with my family.

What I’m noticing now: Compared to when this first started I see how people have adjusted and also explored their perspective on what we should do regarding opening back up or how we should behave in public and so forth.  It feels like people have relaxed quite a bit.

Lori’s Summary:  Marco is definitely a practical, hands on, be in the present moment kind of guy.  He works at a car dealership, loves to be outdoors as much as he likes to play video games, and enjoys being with friends.  He makes the best of his situation and is the kind of person you just want to be around.