While the Long Beach Public Schools illuminated the high school field on May 1, many members of the district and community joined in from a distance. Between 8:20 p.m. (20:20 Military time) and 8:40 p.m., the stadium lights were turned on and the scoreboard displayed "2020" as a tribute to the senior class and student athletes. Meanwhile, homes across the barrier island flashed their own lights in support of this initiative. 

The effort to #BeTheLight was organized by athletic directors across Long Island to honor the Class of 2020 and high school athletes who have lost so much this spring. Throughout the day and weekend, staff members, students and parents submitted more than one hundred photos and videos that convey encouragement, strength and pride. They can be viewed here. Live field lighting footage is available via the Long Beach Public Schools Facebook page. 

“We want our students to know that we appreciate them and celebrate all their hard work,” said Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics Arnold Epstein. “We look forward to having full fields and bleachers again one day, and our spring 2020 athletes will have made their mark in a different way. Thank you to all who helped #BeTheLight as Long Beach gets through these times together.”