Where do we go from here? That question has been hanging over Manhattan Beach and the whole world since March of 2020. The truth is, there is not a right answer. This past year and a half has been unprecedented to say the least. We are still in the midst of a pandemic, but we are finding ways to continue living. Over 90% of Costa students are vaccinated, yet there are unfortunately still new cases of COVID. Even as a school we are in limbo. Although one can easily approach this feeling of impasse with a negative attitude, I am choosing to remain optimistic. Throughout all of the uncertainty, I have witnessed numerous acts of kindness that have proven to me how special our school is.
As Costa students, we are often overwhelmed by school work, sports, and extracurricular activities. Amazingly, though, I have started hearing about students who were finding creative ways to help others. One freshman baked cookies with his mom to take to a soup kitchen in downtown Los Angeles. Two sophomore girls dedicated one day a week to making fruit boxes for a homeless shelter in Torrance. I keep hearing these stories over and over, and I have realized that my peers are stepping up in the midst of a challenging time — not shying away.
In December of 2020, my fellow Costa student and friend, Addie Lee, partnered with the Salvation Army to start the Helping Hand Club to help underserved communities. He recognized that people were losing their homes and their livelihoods, and kids were paying a huge price. The club focuses on tutoring and developing relationships with young kids. My friends and I immediately joined, and we were able to continue the club virtually. When I think about people like Addie, I am overwhelmed by how our community has stepped up.
I am ever impressed by the resilience of students at Mira Costa. We continue to be one of the best academic and college preparatory high schools in the state of California, but most importantly, we remain committed to higher standards of character. I am grateful for my time at Mira Costa, and I feel lucky to be part of a community focused on giving back.
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