High School Stadiums Turn on Lights to Show Support for Class of 2020

Armstrong High School turned on lights for 20 minutes at 8:20 p.m. to honor the graduating class of 2020.

Local high school stadiums turned on their lights at 8:20 p.m., or 20:20 in military time, for exactly 20 minutes to honor the Class of 2020 and recognize what the senior class has missed because of the novel coronavirus.

The idea actually originated in Texas, with stadiums lighting up the night to show support and perhaps inspiration for seniors. Sometimes districts say the lights also honor first responders or the healthcare community. Every high school in the CCX News viewing area is participating.

Last week, the Minnesota State High School League mentioned the idea on Twitter with the hashtag #BetheLightMN. On the first Monday after that tweet, more than 200 high schools followed suit.

Osseo Area Schools says the lights will be turned on every Monday until the end of the school year, but they urge students not to stop by schools. Instead, they point students toward social media channels. A statement posted to the district’s website encourages students to “Be the Light” to others by calling, reaching out to family and shining through adversity. The page also shares video messages from high school principals. You can hear those by clicking here.

At Armstrong High School, activities director Patti Weldon says the lights will be turned on for 20 minutes on Monday nights until the students come back to school.

Wayzata Public Schools shared drone video their stadium lights.