Senior activities may be on hold, but Walnut High students have something to look forward to: Radio and TV show host Ryan Seacrest will send a video message to them at their May 28 virtual recognition ceremony.

The new coronavirus pandemic has closed all schools, including activities and graduation ceremonies.

So to give his students a memorable experience during this crisis, Principal Ryan Maine called into Seacrest’s morning talk show on Friday, April 17 to ask if he would leave a message to Walnut High’s 588 graduating seniors, according to a Walnut Valley Unified news release.

The “American Idol” host agreed and Maine aims to provide “hope and support” to the seniors who can’t walk up and grab their diplomas this year, Maine said in a statement.

“Our seniors and their families have had May 28 circled on their calendar all year,” Maine said.

On Seacrest’s show, Maine explained all school staff and students have been trying their best to adapt to online education: “It feels like we’re building an airplane while it’s up in the air.”

After hearing Friday’s broadcast, Matt Mayo a senior and Walnut’s Associated Student Body president, said the news is like a “bright light in the darkness.”

“Our student body is so thankful,” Mayo said in the release. “With the current circumstances, I know that many seniors and even parents are devastated, but Mr. Maine is going out of his way to make a long-lasting memory.”