LYNN — School Committee member Brian Castellanos is making strides toward providing some “redemption” for Class of 2020 seniors who are missing out on their year-end celebrations due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Castellanos, 30, said hearing from disappointed seniors prompted him to organize a fundraising campaign for the Class of 2020, which will culminate with him running a virtual marathon next month.
He’s aiming to raise $10,000. That amount would enable him, through a partnership with the Lynn Business Education Foundation, to provide 40 high school seniors with $250 college scholarships.
If Castellanos reaches his goal, the city’s four public high schools would have up to 10 scholarships to provide to deserving seniors.
“I had so many students and parents reach out about how upset they were about commencement being canceled and all senior activities,” said Castellanos. “I wanted to do something for them and redeem hope for the city.”
Another incentive, Castellanos said, was hearing from students who were concerned about not being able to access many scholarships this year because of the early end to the school year.
Since its launch on his social media platforms Monday night, more than $2,800 has already been raised toward the “26.2 Run for Lynn Class of 2020 #Covid19Redemption,” campaign, as of Thursday evening.
Castellanos kicked off the effort with a $750 donation, to cover three scholarships, and plans to make a final push the week before the campaign is set to close by running a virtual marathon in Lynn on Saturday, June 6.
He said the target date to get scholarships out would be before the last day of school, which has been set for June 18.
“Covid-19 has taken so much from us,” said Castellanos, who works as a social worker with the Department of Children and Families. “The amount of fear that this pandemic has generated compelled me to fight back. I have seen so much loss.
“It’s been hitting me on all levels through the DCF hat I wear to my role as an elected official. I’ve been on the ground trying to help families who have been impacted economically, emotionally and (who are) traumatized by what’s happening.”
However, Castellanos said his reasons for putting together a campaign for high school seniors are even more personal.
As someone who experienced poverty and bouts of homelessness growing up, Castellanos said it’s in his nature to give back to the community that keeps him going and stand for people who don’t have a voice.
He also knows how meaningful a high school graduation can be for many students.
“The day I graduated high school was one of the most inspiring experiences I’ve ever been through,” said Castellanos. “There are so many students who battled through the trenches to get on that stage — to receive not only a diploma, but to share in their schools’ traditions.
“It’s a big hit on the school community. I felt compelled to give back to the Class of 2020 and the students who will not be able to have that moment. I also believe in student voice. They deserve to know the community cares about what they are going through.”
Superintendent Dr. Patrick Tutwiler said he’s spoken with Castellanos about his fundraising campaign and is in full support of the effort.
“I think that is one among many displays of consideration, thoughtfulness and commitment to the students in Lynn that I have seen over the course of this pandemic and since I’ve been an employee in the city of Lynn,” said Tutwiler. “I am thrilled and excited about it and I think it also reflects the kind of person that Brian Castellanos is. He cares so deeply about students, so I’m not surprised he came up with this.”
People can donate to the campaign through the “26.2 Run for Lynn Class of 2020 #Covid19Redemption” gofundme page.