School's Out But Parents Still Want Graduation Ceremony

TAMPA BAY, FL — Thousands of high school seniors across Tampa Bay won't be able to cherish the memories of their senior prom or celebrate a last time with classmates at a graduation bash. However, Tampa Bay school superintendents say they're determined to find a way for seniors to don a cap and gown and participate in a traditional graduation ceremony.

Saturday's announcement by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis ordering all schools closed through the remainder of the school year due to the coronavirus will likely mean foregoing the typical distribution of diplomas in May and July. But school districts are looking into other ways for seniors to graduate this school year.

“I believed in my heart that it was likely we would not return to our school campuses for the remainder of the year but that doesn’t make it easy to hear the official announcement from the state," said Hillsborough County Schools Supervisor Addison Davis.

Davis said the Hillsborough School District is looking at possibly hosting graduation ceremonies at the Florida State Fairgrounds July 13 - July 23.

"Our district has worked with select seniors, school-based leaders and district staff to develop multiple options for school graduations," he said. "All May graduation ceremonies will be canceled at this time, but our district proactively worked with the Florida State Fairgrounds to secure alternate dates in July."

"We recognize that there are many end-of-year traditions and this time is exceptionally hard for our high school seniors and their families," said Michael Grego, superintendent of Pinellas County Schools. "We are working to ensure such celebrations, especially graduation, are honored and meaningful."

Grego said the district is working with the Tampa Bay Rays regarding dates in June or July to host graduations if CDC guidelines and the Major League Baseball schedule allow.

"There are many details still to work out, and we will provide updated information as it becomes available," he said.

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Meanwhile, Pasco County Schools Superintendent Kurt Browning said he isn't quite prepared to cancel graduation ceremonies in late May and early June.

"We are aware that this could affect graduations and proms," he said. "These are once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and we know how important they are. We remain hopeful – and at the same time we are weighing our options. We still have several weeks to make sure that our seniors have a graduation that is memorable and meaningful."

DeSantis' announcement was one parents of high school seniors were dreading.

"I can't believe these kids worked so hard to get where they are like my daughter," said Pasco County mother Tammy Weiss. "She is a senior this year, and I am so hurt that she can not get what she wanted — just to walk across that stage and say, 'I did it.'"

Pasco County parent Heather Gillman was disappointed that the school district didn't provide more information about possible plans for graduation.

"My son as well as many others have been busting their rear ends to get to that day," she said. "To walk across that stage and proudly receive something that they've been preparing for for the past 12 years. Grad bash was canceled; the band's D.C. trip was also canceled. The money paid is nonrefundable. I have serious questions."

Those sentiments were echoed by parents across Tampa Bay.

"I'm not selfish," said Hillsborough County resident Rachel Lombardo whose son is a senior. "I know the whole world is dealing with this issue but it doesn't make it hurt any less. I'd rather everyone be safe and do the right thing. My heart is just broken for the kids."

"I implore all senior parents to email the members of the school board requesting they do everything they can to make these graduations happen," posted Suzie Burton Owens on the Hillsborough County Schools Facebook page. "These seniors have missed out on so much. I am already seeing the depression growing with some of the kids."

"I agree with finishing the school year online," said Heather Palmer, mother of a senior in Pinellas County. "But I am not OK with graduation being virtual. Push the date back a little bit but these seniors deserve to walk the stage and experience that feeling and feel proud for all their hard work and accomplishments. Don't take that away from them."

"This truly ruined the 2020 school year for the seniors," commented Pinellas County mother Paige Ramsdell. "This decision should have been made weeks ago instead of letting them hang in the balance. I'm so disappointed for my daughter and the whole class."