Graduation 2020
We have good news to report about graduation. The Commonwealth has issued guidance and tentative permission for outdoor graduation ceremonies to be held after July 18th. We are hopeful, and planning for, a ceremony on the evening of July 31st.
With this guidance comes a long list of requirements and restrictions that are fairly extensive and will require a great deal of planning, patience, and cooperation from all of us involved. In summary, social distancing for guests and graduates, limited guests (requiring pre-registration), wearing masks, shorter ceremony, no physical contact outside of immediate family members, and efficient entrance and exit protocols are all required. Even with all of these requirements, we will make this special. Our priority for this ceremony is to give our graduates their moments to walk across the field to receive their diplomas in front of their classmates and families. It may not have all of the traditional ceremonial activities; nevertheless, it will be special. In the weeks ahead, we will send more information about logistics and how to pre-register as guests.
We are still holding our televised graduate recognition ceremony on the evening of June 5th. This is an opportunity to allow time for student remarks and to publicly recognize our graduates for their families, friends, and our community on this special date. It also affords us the opportunity for a public recognition in the event that state guidance on July 31st prevents a large gathering. No matter what, we will find a way to deliver diplomas, in person, in front of family. We are planning for July 31st and can’t wait to see the Class of 2020 in their caps and gowns!
That’s it for now. Be well. Be safe.
Matthew Paquette
Principal