Heights High Plans Virtual Graduation, Prom Scheduled For July

CLEVELAND HEIGHTS, OH — The Heights High graduation ceremony will be held virtually on June 23. Seniors will be able to collect their diplomas on June 22 so they may have them in hand for the ceremony.

The administration said the decision to not hold a physical graduation ceremony was "heartbreaking." However, guidance from the Ohio Department of Education and Gov. Mike DeWine necessitated a virtual commencement ceremony.

"A virtual ceremony will allow your educators and loved ones to honor you without compromising public health and safety. We will be working with student representatives to be sure this alternative graduation ceremony includes elements that are meaningful to your cohort and allows for a beautiful, memorable experience," the district said in a statement.

The district has not yet settled all details for the event, including what time the event will be held, the format or where it will be streamed.

Seniors will pickup their caps and gowns at Heights High on May 11. Pickup will take place from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Collection will be done alphabetically.

"You will be asked to pull up and open your vehicle’s trunk for the items to be placed inside. You will also receive any other items that you ordered from Jostens, such as announcements, at this time. Further details to come," the district said.

Other Senior Events In 2020

The district's Senior Awards ceremony will also be held virtually. A date has not yet been set for the event, but it will likely be held at the end of May.

Prom is still scheduled for July 24 at Landerhaven. However, district officials think the likelihood of the event going forward is slim.

"We continue to plan for this tradition and hold out hope that it can be made a reality. However, it’s becoming clearer with time that this event may not go on as planned. We will communicate any changes as soon as possible," Superintendent Liz Kirby said in a statement.

Yard signs honoring graduating seniors are being produced now. The signs will be delivered to each senior's home starting this week.

"Please note that it will likely not be possible to deliver them all in one day, but we will do so as quickly and safely as possible for our staff and volunteers. You will see that there is white space on the sign for you to write your name or a positive message," Kirby said.

The district said seniors should share photos of their yard signs on Twitter and tag the district at @CHUHSchools or @CHUHSupt.

"I respect and acknowledge that your class is learning firsthand about crises and tough decisions much earlier in life than many people. I am extremely proud of the maturity you’ve shown in the face of disappointment and uncertainty," Kirby said. "Please know that we will continue to work hard to recognize you in creative ways and make your senior year as joyous as possible."