Cowbell-like noisemakers, pompoms, car horns blaring, mascots dancing and students saying goodbye to favorite staff members — Cherry Creek High School's senior celebration wasn't a traditional graduation, but the rowdy scene may have been just as cathartic.

“I almost like it better than actual graduation because I get to see each kid,” said Stephany Shadwell, a Cherry Creek English teacher who stood in a long line of staff members cheering students on.

Hundreds of cars rolled through the path — around the perimeter of the Greenwood Village campus — for more than two hours June 4 for a drive-through senior parade, an event built for social distancing during the coronavirus pandemic.

Despite all the disruptions schools statewide faced in the last couple months of the school year, graduating senior Nathan Miao said what will stand out to him about the year is the memories of being with friends as high school came to a close.

Asked what gave him hope during the pandemic's rise, Miao said: “Knowing how well our district handles challenges.”