School Stadium Lights Illuminated Across LI To Honor Seniors

GREENPORT, NY — Stadium lights across Long Island will be illuminated Friday night to honor high school seniors who have lost so much of their senior years to the new coronavirus.

The tribute will take place from 8:20 p.m. to 8:40 p.m., when stadium lights will be turned on at schools across Long Island; in addition, the scoreboard will be turned on with "2020" displayed, according to Chris Golden, athletic director at the Greenport Union Free School District.

"This is an organized tribute by school districts across Long Island to recognize all the high school senior athletes, seniors and students who have lost so much this spring," Golden said. "I am asking that community members turn their house and business lights on and off for a few minutes in support of our Greenport students and especially our seniors, who have lost out on so many traditions and memories."

Residents are encouraged to honk their horns and "make some noise" at home, to honor the seniors, he said.

Golden said the scoreboard on the Dorrie Jackson Memorial Field which will read “2020” across the board to pay tribute "to this great class of kids."

To keep everyone safe and to follow social distancing guidelines, people have been asked not to congregate at the school.

"Please do not show up to the fields and parking lot as public gatherings are prohibited — and social distancing policies remain in effect," he said.

Photos and videos of the Greenport tribute will be posted on the district's website and on social media, he said.