A bitter-cold rain shower was far from enough to keep nearly 300 Littleton High School seniors from accepting their diplomas during an outside ceremony on the school's track field on May 20. 

"After all, life is not about waiting for the storm to pass, it's learning how to dance in the rain," said board of education member Lindley McCrary. 

For Cathey Benton, Littleton High School's principal, the graduating class marked her first as principal.

It also represents a group of students who spent the majority of their high school experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, navigating online learning, social distancing and various other mental, emotional and physical challenges.

"Class of 2022 you are unique, you are special and you will forever be the first of mine in my heart," Benton said. "They have done all we have asked and most have done much more, they are truly ready to make a living, make a life and make a difference." 

As speeches ended and graduates braced the weather to walk for their diplomas, friends and family members clapped and cheered as they watched the purple and gold-draped seniors step into the next chapter of their lives.