CORPUS CHRISTI, TX — Just like thousands of seniors across the country, Belize Garcia's senior year was cut short due to COVID-19. She had banquets, classes and even graduation to look forward to.
"Over the last four years, you work so hard to get into college and to get that job that you want, because of all your hard work…during high school," Garcia said. "And you kind of want to feel recognized and appreciated for it."
Like many parents, Belize’s mother, Margaret Reyes felt bad for her daughter. "I think the most instant thing was, sadness."
Reyes wanted to do something special for her daughter because she knew how hard Belize worked have the accolades that she does.
In an effort to put her daughter’s accomplishments on full display, Reyes created a real-life scrap book outside her home. She chose items that shows Belize’s accomplishments such as her cap and gown, and cheer-leading uniform.
Along with her uniform, there’s a picture of Belize, along with blue and gold decorations to show that moody high school spirit. Reyes also applauds her daughter’s academics by hanging a stethoscope on display.
"In this moment, just pride and be able to say, we didn’t forget you," smiled Reyes. "We’re still here, we’re still gonna push through, and whether we get to walk a stage or we don’t, we’re going to celebrate you one way or the other."
As for Belize, she says she’ll cherish the memories she made in high school, but she’s already looking ahead to what’s next.
"Us as seniors, we need to kind of recognize that we really won’t be going back to high school, potentially. So we should really look forward to our future, and what we’re going to do next year."
Belize's favorite item on the display is her St. Mary's University baseball cap, that's where she'll be going to school next fall. She hopes to become a PA and help other in the healthcare industry.
Belize's mother, Margaret, posted the outdoor senior display on social media. The display has encouraged other parents to do the same, some even showing their senior's letterman hanging on the door.
