Washington Township 'Committed' To June Graduation

LONG VALLEY, NJ - The new coronavirus, or COVID-19, pandemic has turned our lives upside down over the past few weeks and robbed so many of the chance to make memories. But Washington Township Mayor Matt Murello says he wants to preserve one if he can: graduation.

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"Over the weekend, I have had several conversations with Principal Tim Rymer of WMCHS and Chief (Jeffrey) Almer," Murello said. "The HS is committed to having graduation this June and I have promised the Township will offer whatever support the high school needs to make sure that the class of 2020 has a graduation on June 11 at 5 p.m."

Murello noted that so students have missed out on so much this Spring due to distance learning. Not just the after school activities like sports, clubs and the arts, but the social aspect of school. Murello specifically said no one has felt this more keenly than the West Morris Central Class of 2020, and that helping them get a graduation is a priority.

"I don't know what that’s going to look like at this point, but we will make sure that our graduates are given the commencement that they deserve from WMCHS as they start the next chapter of their lives while complying with the Governor's Executive Orders on gatherings and social distancing and keeping everyone safe," Murello said.

Murello said that since the beginning of the emergency, he watchedthe community come together like never before.

"People have started online groups to help our medical staff and first responders, offer food and supplies to people that can't get access to them, create PPE for others, shop or deliver groceries to seniors that can't get out and just offer emotional support to our neighbors," he said. "I know that this month has been difficult and we still have some time to go before we can start to get to some level of normalcy. Whatever that new 'normal' may look like. You all have made me very honored to represent you as your Mayor."

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