Cranford Superintendent: Good News About Graduation (In July)

CRANFORD, NJ — After Gov. Phil Murphy announced Tuesday that he may allow school graduation ceremonies to be held outdoors starting July 6, Cranford Superintendent of Schools Scott Rubin wrote that he was "excited" by the news, in an email to the school community.

Rubin had previously said that school graduation celebrations would have to be virtual, in light of vague directives given by Murphy's administration at the beginning of the month. Then, on May 13, Murphy issued an order allowing graduations and other gatherings in cars, with respect to social distancing.

But many students and community members didn't think that went far enough.

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Over the weekend, a group of high school student officers sent the governor a letter asking to graduate in person. They noted that they could graduate on a football field and practice social distancing, for instance.

On Tuesday, the governor said he'd likely allow outdoor ceremonies starting July 6, and would offer more guidance on Wednesday.

"We are excited to share that the governor released the following statement today," wrote Superintendent Rubin in his letter: "'TO THE CLASS OF 2020: Beginning July 6th, schools WILL have the opportunity to hold outdoor graduation ceremonies that comply with social distancing – ensuring the health and safety of all in attendance.' ”

Rubin added, "We anxiously await the guidance and look forward to providing the community with an update on end of year event planning very soon! Thank you for your support, partnership and your flexibility throughout this emotional and evolving situation. We can’t wait to provide a memorable and celebratory event that honors and recognizes our students!"

Previously, Rubin had written that at the high school level, "Mr. Cantagallo, the CHS principal, will work with students, parents/guardians, and community members to create a virtual graduation ceremony that will take place on June 18."

So far, 90 Cranford residents have died of coronavirus, 77 linked to long-term care facilities. As of last week, there were 455 confirmed cases in the community.

(To get updated statistics on deaths at long term care facilities in New Jersey, click here.)

Statewide, as of Tuesday, the number of coronavirus cases in New Jersey has risen to 155,764, and 11,191 people have died. The number represented 703 new cases and 54 new deaths in the last 24 hours.

On April 30, the death rate reached a peak in New Jersey, as 460 New Jerseyans lost their lives to the virus in 24 hours, or one person every three minutes. The number of new deaths then began to gradually decline. But Gov. Murphy has said any reopenings have to be done slowly and predicated on data, to avoid a new spike.

Here is more information on coronavirus in Cranford and how to help or get help.

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