New Graduation Plans Announced For Fairfield High Schools

FAIRFIELD, CT — After much deliberation and debate, officials have announced plans that will allow students at both of Fairfield’s high schools to graduate as a class and walk across a stage. The graduation debate went through many stages as officials worked to balance public health concerns related to the coronavirus outbreak with the community's desire for a traditional ceremony.

“Prior to this week, we were left with the untenable choice between having the graduates all be present in cars with only their names announced, OR have students have an opportunity to walk across the stage one-at-a-time at much smaller ceremonies,” Fairfield Ludlowe Headmaster Greg Hatzis wrote in a message to the school community. “The state guidelines restricted us from doing both. HOWEVER, we are pleased to announce that with some loosening of the guidelines and some expert help from town officials, we can now have all FLHS seniors together AND offer a chance to walk across a stage!”

Fairfield Warde Headmaster Paul A. Cavanna said the town is “allowing both high schools, on different dates, to hold a ‘drive-in’ graduation ceremony that allows all Fairfield Public School seniors to graduate as a class, walk across a stage as their name is read, receive a diploma case, and have a professional photograph taken wearing the traditional cap and gown regalia.

“Although this is different from what we last discussed, this plan affords us the opportunity to honor the entire Class of 2020 in a manner that most resembles a traditional ceremony,” Cavanna said.

The Fairfield Ludlowe graduation will take place June 16 at Jennings Beach, while the Warde graduation June 17 at Jennings Beach. Rain dates are scheduled for both schools.

Both events will begin at 8 p.m., which Cavanna said is so that viewing can be optimized on two 40-foot jumbo screens.

“These screens are essential to ensure attendees can see our graduates crossing the stage and receiving their diploma case,” Cavanna said in a message to the school community. “Also, the walkways and stage will be illuminated with LED lighting. In addition, the grounds will be decorated in a celebratory manner with a stage adorned with the Warde backdrop, flowers, and balloons.”

The ceremony will include traditional speeches that will be projected on two jumbo screens, recorded for future viewing, and broadcast live through an FM transmitter and played on an FM radio station. Professional photographs will be taken and available for purchase.

All attendees must have face masks and social distancing rules will be in effect. Family members must remain in their cars at all times.

Read complete details on the Fairfield Ludlowe graduation ceremony here and details on the Fairfield Warde graduation ceremony can be found here.